Critics alarmed as UGC pushes universities toward RSS-linked event in Delhi
‘All state institutions are now extended bodies of the RSS’: Varsity professor
New Delhi: The University Grants Commission (UGC), under Indian Ministry of Education, has invited higher education institutions to participate in a convention organized by two RSS affiliated bodies, drawing criticism over increasing influence of the RSS in state institutions.
According to Kashmir Media Service, universities and colleges have been urged to take part in the National Convention of Women Thought Leaders, titled “Bharati-Nari to Narayani”, scheduled for March 7–8, 2026, at Vigyan Bhavan in New Delhi. The event is being organized by Bharatiya Vidvat Parishad (BVP) and Rashtra Sevika Samiti, both affiliates of the RSS.
The UGC circular describes the convention as a platform for women thought leaders to deliberate on self-reliance, inclusive leadership, and holistic national development. Universities have been asked to organize pre-conference activities, including panel discussions, poster presentations, and audio-visual projects, across eight themes, consolidate the outcomes, and submit reports to the UGC. Each institution is also directed to nominate two faculty members to attend the event in New Delhi.
Delhi University professor and columnist Apoorvanand took to X to criticise the move, saying that the UGC was “actively propagating and promoting the affiliates of the RSS.” Referring to the circular inviting higher education institutions to participate in the convention, he wrote, “All state institutions are now extended bodies of the RSS.”
