RSS event in Bengaluru criticized for ignoring Kannada language

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) is facing criticism for neglecting the Kannada language at its recent event in Bengaluru. The Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha (ABPS) meeting started on Friday and is being held in Karnataka's capital. However, many have noticed that the event featured only Hindi signage. This has angered local residents. The RSS chief, Mohan Bhagwat, inaugurated the three-day meeting at the Janseva Vidya Kendra in Channenahalli. It is a significant gathering where the organization's annual report and future plans are discussed. Critics, especially Kannada activists, are expressing their frustration on social media. They accuse the RSS of promoting Hindi while sidelining the local language, Kannada. Online reactions have been intense. Many users have pointed out that the absence of Kannada at the event contradicts the RSS's claims of supporting cultural pride. Some have asked if the organization can be trusted to protect the Kannada language and culture when it does not include them in its events held in Karnataka. The RSS has said that the Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha is its highest decision-making body. They plan to discuss their report for the upcoming year, their centenary celebrations in 2025-26, and various initiatives related to social work and national matters. Nonetheless, the criticism over language representation continues to grow.