India, Sept. 7 -- The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) is in the midst of a centenary-year international outreach campaign, with its chief, Mohan Bhagwat, travelling abroad to meet political figures and address diaspora audiences. The stated purpose is to explain the RSS, counter what it calls "misconceptions" about itself, India and Hindu society, and strengthen ties with Indian-origin communities.

But the fact is that the West has no shortage of information about the RSS. The organisation is facing increasing public exposure and scrutiny, particularly from civil society, religious bodies, journalists and human-rights organisations.

Earlier visits to the United States by RSS general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale and former RSS functi...