A disgraceful incident unfolded outside the prominent Madison Square Garden in New York, United States, where anti-India and pro-Khalistani elements engaged in provocative acts. During an event featuring Mohan Bhagwat, the chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, protestors claiming affiliation with extremist factions openly disrespected the Indian national flag. After video clips of the episode circulated widely online, Union Minister and BJP leader Kiren Rijiju responded sharply, issuing a direct warning to the perpetrators.
Disgraceful Scenes Outside Madison Square Garden
On Saturday, August 29, the Universal Onesiveness Celebration was organized by the American Hindus for Engagement and Dialogue inside the Infosys Theater at Madison Square Garden, featuring an address by the RSS chief. Outside the venue, a group of anti-India demonstrators carrying banners and posters gathered to disrupt the atmosphere. These individuals were linked to Sikhs for Justice, an organization banned by the Government of India.
In the viral video footage, one pro-Khalistani supporter was seen tying the Indian tricolour to his legs while posing for the camera, while other demonstrators ripped apart another flag and cheered. The protestors also placed a garland of shoes on a cut-out of Mohan Bhagwat and chanted anti-India slogans.
Kiren Rijiju Condemns the Insult
Expressing deep outrage over the incident, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju took to the social media platform X to state that while everyone enjoys the freedom to criticize the government, the BJP, or the RSS, any disrespect shown to India and its national flag will never be tolerated under any circumstances.
Rijiju issued a firm caution, emphasizing that abusing the nation and dishonoring the tricolour would carry heavy consequences for those responsible.
Amid the ongoing global outreach programs celebrating the centenary year of the RSS, Mohan Bhagwat is on a three-nation tour of the United States. While thousands of members of the Indian diaspora gathered inside the venue to listen to messages of unity, anti-social elements tied to banned outfits demonstrated their frustration outside. Authorities are expected to take stringent measures against those involved in the provocation.
