Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge has written to Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat, demanding that the organisation publicly disclose its legal status, organisational structure, and sources of funding. The letter, dated 13 June, was sent on the occasion of the RSS completing 100 years of its existence.

What Kharge Has Asked

Kharge, a Congress leader and Karnataka cabinet minister, congratulated the RSS on its centenary but argued that its vast reach and public presence warrant greater scrutiny and compliance with constitutional and legal norms. He sought details on the organisation's legal and organisational structure, office-bearers, sources of donations and income, expenditure and assets, tax compliance, and the legal basis on which it conducts activities without formal registration as a legal entity.

He also asked for details of permissions and compliance mechanisms followed for public events, mass gatherings, and route marches.

The Scale That Prompted the Questions

Citing figures from the RSS's 2025-26 annual report released by the Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha (ABPS), Kharge noted that the organisation has a significant presence in Karnataka alone — with 4,127 daily shakhas, 1,389 weekly milans, and 60 monthly mandalis. According to the same report, the RSS organised 2,194 Samajotsavas in the state, drawing more than 19.6 lakh participants, and conducted 562 route marches involving over 2.21 lakh uniformed volunteers.

Kharge argued that such a large organisational network — involving regular public mobilisation, route marches, and mass outreach — raises legitimate questions about its legal standing, financial transparency, and compliance with Indian law.

What Kharge Said

'An organisation that regularly invokes nationalism, discipline and duty must also demonstrate these values through transparency, compliance and respect for the Constitution of India,' Kharge said. He added that no organisation, regardless of its size or influence, can remain beyond public accountability in a constitutional democracy.

Drawing a pointed comparison, he said: 'In Bharat, even a safai karamchari must be registered to avail government benefits. Religious institutions, charitable trusts, NGOs, societies and companies are required to disclose their activities, finances and organisational structures. It is only fair that the RSS also adheres to the same standards.'

Call for Constitutional Introspection

Kharge urged the RSS to treat its centenary year as an opportunity for 'constitutional introspection' and called on the organisation to formally register itself, disclose its finances and activities, pay all applicable taxes, and function within a transparent legal framework. He said he was looking forward to a formal response and requested that authorised office-bearers be deputed for discussions on the issues raised.

The letter adds to a broader debate about the accountability of large civil society organisations in India, and arrives at a politically charged moment as the RSS marks a century of uninterrupted organisational activity.