RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat’s visit to the Khalsa Jatha British Isles Gurdwara in central London has generated disagreement among sections of the Sikh community.
British-Sikh businessman and philanthropist Peter Virdee and Indian parliamentarian Vikramjeet Singh Sahney accompanied Bhagwat during the visit. Both defended the decision to receive him, arguing that a gurdwara remains open to every visitor and that extending religious hospitality should not be interpreted as supporting the RSS or its political outlook.
Opponents questioned whether a prominent RSS representative should have been formally received at a Sikh religious institution. Their objections reflect longstanding differences between sections of the Sikh leadership and organizations associated with the RSS, particularly concerning the independent identity of Sikhism.
Virdee and Sahney said Bhagwat entered as a devotee, paid respects before Guru Granth Sahib and received Karah Prasad. They maintained that dialogue and hospitality do not constitute organizational endorsement.
The disagreement remains a community and religious-representation issue. British authorities did not announce any investigation, sanction or restriction connected with the visit.
