RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Addresses Key Questions on Registration, Taxes, and BJP Support
Bengaluru, November 9, 2025 – Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat addressed long-standing questions surrounding the organization's operational framework, including its unregistered status, tax exemptions, and perceived alignment with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). In a recent address to RSS members, Bhagwat offered detailed explanations on these matters, aiming to clarify the organization's position amidst ongoing scrutiny and debate.
Addressing the RSS's unregistered status, Bhagwat stated that the law does not mandate registration for every organization. He pointed out that the RSS, founded in 1925, was not registered with the British government during the pre-independence era, and post-independence laws did not make it compulsory. He emphasized that the RSS is recognized as a "body of individuals" under the law. Bhagwat further defended the non-registration by stating, "Many things are not registered. Even Hindu dharma is not registered". He also alluded to the bans the RSS faced in the past, stating that these instances prove the government recognizes the organization.
Regarding income tax exemption, Bhagwat clarified that the RSS is recognized as a body of individuals, which allows for certain exemptions. He noted that the Income Tax Department had previously requested the RSS to pay taxes, but the courts granted exemptions for the "guru dakshina" (offerings to the guru) paid to the Sangh. He stated that the organization manages its finances internally, with cadres and workers donating to the RSS.
On the topic of the RSS's relationship with the BJP, Bhagwat emphasized that the RSS supports policies and ideas, not specific political parties. He acknowledged that the BJP, being open to RSS members, naturally aligns with some of the organization's ideologies. He also stated that the RSS can offer advice, but the BJP makes the final decisions. He clarified that there are no fundamental disagreements between the two, and the RSS has good coordination with the BJP-led government, as it has had with previous governments. He refuted claims that the RSS dictates decisions for the BJP, including the selection of its president. Bhagwat stated that the BJP has its own expertise in political affairs, just as the RSS manages its own internal matters.
Bhagwat's statements come in response to recent criticisms from opposition leaders questioning the RSS's transparency and legal standing. Congress leader Priyank Kharge had questioned why the RSS remains unregistered and raised concerns about its sources of funding and the security provided to its chief. Bhagwat's remarks aimed to dispel these concerns and provide a clear understanding of the RSS's operational principles. He reiterated the RSS's commitment to respecting the Indian tricolor, countering allegations that it only respects the saffron flag.
