A viral video allegedly showing pro-Khalistan supporters trampling and tearing the Indian flag outside Madison Square Garden during RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat’s New York visit has sparked outrage online. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju condemned the act, warning protesters not to insult the national flag, as critics and activists also targeted Bhagwat’s message on unity and diversity as hypocritical.
A VIDEO HAS BEEN CIRCULATING on the internet in which pro-Khalistani supporters allegedly disrespected the Indian national flag by stepping on it and tearing it. The now-viral video, which was purportedly taken outside Madison Square Garden in New York City, USA, on August 29, 2026, has drawn criticism on the internet. The people had gathered at the site as Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat visited New York City as part of his address at the Universal Oneness Celebration.
According to a report by India Blooms News Service, the act was allegedly carried out by pro-Khalistani supporters, including supporters of Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) which is a banned Khalistani group in India. They further alleged that the demonstration was attended by several organisations, such as the Khalistan Affairs Center and the Council of Khalistan.
The video, which has gained hundreds of views, has been called disrespectful by many users on the internet. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju shared the video on his official X handle on August 30, 2026, calling out the act of tearing the Indian national flag and stepping on it.
Kiren Rijiju shared the viral video and wrote a caption warning the protesters not to insult the national flag of India. He wrote, “We always said, you have freedom to criticize RSS, BJP or Govt. but don't abuse our nation.” RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat’s visit to Madison Square Garden was criticized by many people, with several activists rallying outside the venue during Bhagwat’s address.
During his address, Bhagwat spoke about various subjects, including the ideas of unity, diversity, and human interconnectedness, as quoted by the Hindustan Times.
Following the circulation of the video allegedly showing Khalistani supporters, Kiren Rijiju wrote in his post, “Listen carefully, Don't insult our flag and my country. It will cost you very dearly.”
The event where the RSS chief addressed the audience at Madison Square Garden was organised by American Hindus for Engagement and Dialogue (AHED). In his address, Mohan Bhagwat stressed how America reminds one of pluralism. “When we say Bharat, another phrase is discussed—unity in diversity. For Bharat, both unity and diversity are in its DNA,” said Bhagwat.
The Indian political opposition slammed the RSS chief for double standards. During his speech, Bhagwat said, “If any Hindu thinks that there should be no Muslim in Bharat (India), he will not remain Hindu.”
Senior Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal, as quoted by the Deccan Herald, said, “You accept diversity abroad but you don’t tolerate diversity at home.”
See Also: RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat on LGBTQ+ Community: 'They Are Part of Our Society and Deserve Dignity'
Mohan Bhagwat has been serving as the Sarsanghchalak of the RSS since 2009. As per reports, Bhagwat is regarded as the youngest person to lead the right-wing Hindutva organisation. He was born in Chandrapur, Maharashtra, into a family that has long been associated with the RSS. He began working with the RSS in the 1970s.
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(Edited by Harsh Pandey)
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