'Insulting the Country Will Be Costly': Kiren Rijiju Slams Tricolour Desecration in New York Ahead of RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat's Event

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has issued a strong warning following a controversial protest outside Madison Square Garden in New York, where demonstrators allegedly desecrated the Indian national flag. The incident occurred ahead of an address by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat as part of the organization's centenary global outreach tour. Taking to social media, Rijiju condemned the act, asserting that while political criticism is welcome, direct insults to India and its national symbols will carry a heavy penalty.

Kiren Rijiju Condemns Desecration of the National Flag

The protests took place on Saturday, August 29, 2026, ahead of the Universal Oneness Celebration event featuring RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat during the first leg of his three-nation tour covering the US, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Sharing video footage of the demonstration on the platform X, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju expressed fierce indignation over the alleged disrespect shown to the Indian tricolour.

Rijiju stated that individuals and groups possess the democratic freedom to criticize political entities, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), or the RSS. However, he drew a firm line regarding national dignity, warning protestors that insulting India and its flag will prove to be very costly.

RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Emphasizes Duty to the Karmabhoomi

Meanwhile, addressing the gathering at Madison Square Garden, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat focused on the responsibilities of the Indian diaspora living abroad. He emphasized that while India remains their motherland (janmabhoomi), the countries where they reside and earn their livelihoods serve as their workplaces (karmabhoomi).

Bhagwat urged people of Indian origin residing in America to integrate their ancestral values with complete loyalty and dedication to their adopted home. He noted that overseas Indians must prioritize their duties toward their land of work, behaving as true citizens of the nations where they live and contribute professionally.