Priyank Kharge Attacks RSS Over Funding, Questions Legal Status and Registration

Karnataka IT and BT Minister Priyank Kharge has launched a scathing attack on the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), questioning its financial transparency and legal standing. " He argued that political opponents must confront the RSS directly rather than focusing solely on the BJP, as the latter derives its ideological strength from the former.

Comparison of RSS and BJP Dynamics

According to Priyank Kharge, the BJP's political existence is deeply intertwined with the RSS. He claimed that without the support and ideological framework of the RSS, the BJP would perform worse than regional parties like the JD(S). Kharge emphasized that the current political struggle is often misdirected toward the "shadow" (BJP) instead of the "entity" (RSS). He stated that addressing the root influence of the RSS is essential for the betterment of the country's democratic fabric.

Allegations of Money Laundering and Financial Irregularities

" He questioned the sources of the organization's vast funds and pointed out a perceived lack of accountability. Kharge noted that while the RSS advocates for citizens to be responsible taxpayers, the organization itself remains outside the traditional tax and regulatory scrutiny applied to other entities, while he demanded that the same constitutional and legal rules governing ordinary citizens and organizations be applied to the RSS.

Global Network and Funding Sources

Kharge highlighted the extensive reach of the RSS, claiming it operates a network of over 2500 affiliated organizations. He asserted that this network extends beyond Indian borders to countries like the United States and the United Kingdom. According to the Minister, significant funds flow into the organization from these diverse domestic and international sources, while he called for a thorough investigation into how these funds are managed and why there is a lack of public disclosure regarding their financial statements.

Demand for Mandatory Registration and Legal Compliance

A major point of Kharge's critique focused on the legal status of the RSS. He noted that the organization often describes itself as a "body of individuals" to avoid formal registration. The Minister vowed to ensure that the organization undergoes mandatory registration under the prevailing laws of the land. He argued that as long as the Constitution and the rule of law exist, no organization, whether the RSS or the SDPI, should be allowed to operate without legal accountability and registration.

Emphasis on Constitutional Framework and Political Will

Kharge concluded his remarks by stressing the need for strong political will to uphold constitutional values. He maintained that his stance is rooted in the belief that all organizations must function within the legal framework of India. By demanding transparency and registration, he aimed to highlight the necessity of bringing all influential entities under the ambit of public and legal scrutiny to prevent the rise of unchecked communal forces.