Quaid Saifee of Detroit, Michigan, donated $1,000 to US lawmaker Shri Thanedar’s re-election campaign, only to realize his mistake upon discovering Thanedar’s support for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. As a Muslim businessman, Saifee felt uncomfortable with Thanedar’s alignment with Modi, prompting him to demand the return of his donation.
The connection between American politicians and Hindu nationalist groups is raising concerns among voters, especially Indian-Americans. Figures like Raja Krishnamoorthi, Aruna Miller, and Vivek Ramaswamy have faced criticism for their associations with Hindutva organizations.
In the 2024 election cycle, Bhavini Patel’s unsuccessful challenge to US lawmaker Summer Lee highlighted the issue, with Patel’s ties to Hindu nationalist groups drawing backlash. Critics argue that Hindu nationalism, endorsed by groups like the RSS, is threatening India’s social fabric and minority rights.
‘Tearing India’s social fabric apart’
A rise in resistance to Hindu nationalism in the US is evident, with civil society coalitions condemning political ties to Hindutva and calling for a focus on human rights and democracy in dialogues with India.
Rising resistance to Hindu nationalism in US
Various coalitions are now mobilizing against the influence of Hindu nationalism in American politics, urging politicians to reject funding from supremacist groups. Pushback against politicians like Raja Krishnamoorthi and Aruna Miller reflects a growing awareness of the dangers of extremist ideologies.