Demand grows for transparency and accountability of RSS amid scrutiny over its activities
New Delhi: In Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, political observers and civil society activists have welcomed demands for greater transparency and accountability of the RSS, saying the organization’s expanding network and influence require public scrutiny.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the remarks came after leaders in the Indian state of Karnataka called for the registration of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), disclosure of its funding sources and publication of details of its office-bearers.
The observers said the RSS, which has thousands of branches across India and an extensive international network, continues to operate without the transparency standards applied to many other organizations. They maintained that concerns have repeatedly been raised by rights groups and independent observers regarding the role of RSS-affiliated organizations in promoting religious polarization and intolerance.
They said accountability, financial disclosure and adherence to democratic norms are essential for all organizations exercising significant social and political influence. The activists urged the Indian authorities to ensure transparency and impartial oversight of all groups to safeguard democratic values and communal harmony.
