RSS throws weight behind World Hindu Congress

While RSS affiliate Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) has said it is anchoring the three-day conclave, the WHF said it has nothing to do with the RSS, except for “a common goal”. Sources said Swami Vigyananand, joint secretary (international coordination), VHP, was involved in planning the conclave.

“There are no institutional mechanisms in the society to strengthen the Hindu society and make it ready for the future. The meet will work towards coordinating various educational institutions, chambers of commerce, women bodies and media groups, including radio and television channels, owned by Hindus,” WHC coordinator Sushil Pandit said.

Seven conferences — on economics, education, politics, youth, women, organisation and media — would be held during the congress.
Pandit said that BJP’s rise to power was not linked to the decision to hold it in New Delhi. “We had decided to hold it here 18 months ago,” he said.

According to a write-up on the conclave on the official website, the idea is to “shape and nurture Hindu unity and organisation throughout the world”.

Pointing out that Hindus face challenges in different countries, the WHF also claimed that “in Bharat, Hindus continue to face disadvantage and discrimination vis-a-vis other communities”.

About 1,600 people from 30 countries will attend the conclave, which be held at Ashoka Hotel in Chanakyapuri. It is expected to be inaugurated by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat. Among the invitees are the Dalai Lama, senior RSS activists Suresh Soni and Krishna Gopal, VHP leaders Praveen Togadia and Ashok Singhal, and Union ministers Nitin Gadkari, Smriti Irani and Nirmala Sitharaman.