New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has voiced strong disapproval of the upcoming event featuring Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat at Madison Square Garden. Speaking at a news conference, Mamdani clarified that while the city does not possess the authority to cancel a private event, he personally does not support the gathering.
Mamdani, who identifies as the first Indian American mayor in the city's history, highlighted his family's ties to India and his upbringing with a vision of India as a pluralistic, secular republic. He expressed profound concern over what he perceives as a changing narrative.
"It has been incredibly troubling to see the rise of a movement that is predicated on an exclusionary vision of any country, frankly," Mamdani stated. "And so it is one that I find myself in deep opposition to – not only as an Indian American, but also as the mayor of a city that believes deeply in the belonging of each and every person, no matter their color, their creed, their religion, their faith, wherever they’re from."
Mohan Bhagwat's visit to the United States is part of the RSS’ centenary-year global outreach program. He is expected to participate in the 'Universal Oneness' program and address an assembly of approximately 5,000 members of the Indian diaspora.
In parallel with Mamdani's statement, several interfaith and civil rights organizations have also held a press conference outside New York City Hall. Groups including Hindus for Human Rights, the Indian American Muslim Council, and the Interfaith Centre of New York are urging Madison Square Garden to cancel the event, citing similar concerns regarding Bhagwat's appearance.