Pramesh S Jain
Priyank Kharge writes to RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat seeking clarity on organisation’s legal and financial status.
Karnataka Minister for Information Technology, Biotechnology, E-Governance and Rural Development Priyank Kharge has written to Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat,seeking clarification on the organisation’s legal status,organisational structure,sources of funding and public accountability.
Congratulating the RSS on completing 100 years of its existence,Kharge stated that any organisation with a significant influence on public life and an extensive nationwide network must adhere to the highest standards of transparency,accountability and constitutional compliance.
Referring to the 2025-26 report released by the Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha (ABPS),the minister noted that the RSS has claimed to operate thousands of shakhas,weekly gatherings and monthly meetings in Karnataka,besides organising large public events, conventions and route marches involving lakhs of participants.
Given the scale of its activities,Kharge said it is both reasonable and legitimate for the organisation to disclose details regarding its legal status,office-bearers, sources of income,expenditure,assets,tax compliance and permissions obtained for conducting public programmes.
In his letter,the minister sought information on:
The legal status of the organisation and its organisational structure.
Details of office-bearers and authorised representatives.
Sources of donations,contributions and other income.
Information on expenditure and assets.
Compliance with applicable tax laws and payment of taxes.
The legal basis for carrying out activities without formal registration, if applicable.
The constitutional or legal framework under which it operates on such a large scale without public accountability.
Permissions and compliance mechanisms followed for public meetings,route marches and other organised events.
Kharge asserted that in a constitutional democracy, no organisation can remain outside the ambit of the law.He said the same standards applicable to citizens, non-governmental organisations, religious institutions, trusts and companies should apply equally to all entities.
The minister further suggested that the RSS should use its centenary year not merely as a celebration,but also as an opportunity for constitutional introspection.
By voluntarily disclosing details of its activities,finances and legal status,it could set an example as a transparent and accountable organisation,he said.
Kharge has also requested the RSS to nominate authorised representatives and provide a written response to facilitate a discussion on the issues raised in the letter.
