Diplomatic and political activity has intensified at the international level regarding the upcoming visit of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat to America. As part of the global outreach campaign organized to commemorate the centenary of the Sangh, Mohan Bhagwat is scheduled to address the Indian-American community at the 'Universal Oneness Celebration' organized at the prestigious Madison Square Garden in New York on August 29. However, just before this historic event, a debate has erupted after a US organization demanded a travel ban on Sangh leaders. Controversial demands and allegations of USCIRF Members associated with the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) have appealed to the US administration to impose visa and travel restrictions on officials associated with the Sangh, who have been accused of alleged violations of religious freedom in India. In the statements issued by the Commission, citing the situation of Indian minorities, the US State Department has been recommended to take strict action. The Government of India has earlier also completely rejected such reports and statements of USCIRF as biased and motivated by ill will. Preparations for a grand event at Madison Square Garden in New York: Despite all the political protests and objections, preparations to welcome Mohan Bhagwat in New York are continuing with full enthusiasm. This huge gathering is being organized by an organization called 'American Hindus for Engagement and Dialogue' (AHEAD). According to the organizers, more than 5,000 Indian-American citizens and representatives of various religions are expected to attend the conference. The main objective of the program is to convey the message of global harmony, eternal values and all-inclusive thinking of Indian culture. Mohan Bhagwat's foreign tour is not limited to America only, rather he is also going to visit Canada and Britain after this. He also has several interactive sessions and public meetings scheduled with the NRI community in Toronto, Canada. However, some Canadian opposition MPs also recently submitted a memorandum to the government opposing his visit. Despite the growing opposition at the global level, the Indian diaspora is considering Mohan Bhagwat's visit in this centenary year as very important from historical and cultural point of view.
