Rijiju Warns Protesters Who Insulted Tricolour in New York

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has issued a stern warning to protesters who insulted the Indian national flag during an event in New York City. The incident occurred outside Madison Square Garden on Saturday, where a gathering was held to address the Indian diaspora, with RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat as the keynote speaker.

In a post on X, Rijiju said that while political disagreement is acceptable, insulting the nation is not. He warned that those who disrespect the flag and the country would face severe repercussions. "Don't insult our flag and my country. It will cost you very dearly," he said.

Video footage shared by the minister showed protesters tying the Indian flag around a foot and waving it, while others tore the flag in front of cameras. The protesters were heard shouting slogans commonly associated with Khalistani supporters. Local police were present at the scene but did not intervene.

The incident has sparked outrage on social media, with many calling on US authorities to identify the protesters and check their backgrounds. There were also appeals to the Indian government to determine whether any of the protesters hold Indian citizenship, which could make them liable for legal action in India.

The event was part of the RSS's centenary year celebrations. Bhagwat is on a global tour that has included stops in the US, Canada, and the UK. During his address, he urged the Indian diaspora to remain loyal to their country of residence, calling it their "Karma Bhumi," while also remembering India as their "Janma Bhumi."

Bhagwat also spoke about the importance of community and service, saying that material success alone is not sufficient and that love for humanity must guide conduct. The RSS was founded in Nagpur in 1925 by Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, and Bhagwat has served as its chief since 2009.