A group of civil society organizations in the United Kingdom has called on London Mayor Sadiq Khan to take action against a planned visit by Mohan Bhagwat, the Sarsanghchalak (chief) of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). The RSS is a right-wing, Hindu nationalist paramilitary organization based in India.

In their appeal, the coalition expressed significant concerns regarding the potential impact of Bhagwat’s presence in London. The groups contend that allowing the visit would embolden RSS-affiliated organizations already operating within the UK. According to the signatories, this could lead to an increase in the promulgation of hate speech, further polarize the Indian diaspora, and foster an environment of fear and intimidation for vulnerable communities residing in the city.

The request follows similar efforts by civil society groups in the United States, who have previously campaigned against the organization's activities. While the groups characterize the RSS as a source of division and intimidation, the report from The Independent does not include a response from the RSS or its UK-based affiliates regarding these allegations. The Mayor’s office has not yet issued a formal statement regarding whether it has the authority or the intention to intervene in the visit of a private individual or the activities of the organization in question.