Back in 1980s, Ramakrishna Mission tried to separate legally from Hinduism in order to consider itself as a separate religion (Ramakrishnaism). They claimed various philosophical differences. Like:
Arguing for the “distinct” existence of the Mission, the affidavit says that not all its members are Hindus and, in fact, some of them are Muslims and Christians. The first fact proves that it is non-sectarian, the second that it is universal. This is the pat- tern which the affidavit faithfully observes-when the inclusiveness of the Mission is to be shown, Islam and Christianity are mentioned; when its distinct character is to be shown, Hinduism is mentioned. The Mission is distinct from Hinduism in some respects and similar to Islam and Christianity in others. That makes it unique and universal — that is the line of argument.
Further:
The affidavit enumerates many points which in the opinion of the Mission distinguishes it from all other religions, “including traditional Hinduism.” It states that a traditional Hindu “believes in the Vedas only, and not in the scriptures of any other religions,” while followers of Ramakrishna cult believe in all holy scriptures.
More of these alleged differences can be found in Ram Swarup's book Ramakrishna Mission: In Search of a New Identity.
My question is, what is the current stance of the Ramakrishna Mission? Do they still consider themselves non-Hindu?
