Latest news with #HinduAmericans
Time of India
15-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
'Message was sent in error': California senator rectifies Pahalgam statement, says he represents largest Hindu-American population in US
California senator Alex Padilla issued a fresh statement, condemning the Pahalgam terror attack. California senator Alex Padilla who was slammed by the Hindu American Foundation for not condemning the Pahalgam attack in India has rectified his earlier statement and said it was issued in error. The Hindu American Foundation launched a voter voice campaign over the Pahalgam attack in which 26. The foundation has written to several US politicians seeking their support, but Democrat senator Padilla, in his earlier statement, lectured about religious freedom in India, which upset the Hindu American Foundation. "You may have previously received a message from me regarding religious freedom in India. That message was sent in error, and I understand your frustration," the senator wrote, condemning the violence against Hindu civilians in Pahalgam. "As a United States Senator from California, it is my honor to represent the largest population of Hindu Americans in the country. I also deeply value the US-India relationship, and I remain committed to strengthening the relationship and to recognizing the important contributions of Indian Americans in our communities," Padillia wrote. "As you know, 26 civilians, primarily Hindu tourists, were killed in a militant attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like If you have a mouse, you have to play this game. Navy Quest Game Undo The eyewitness accounts of the slaughter are horrific, and I sincerely hope the authorities will bring the perpetrators to justice. In response, India launched retaliatory airstrikes targeting Pakistani targets. The conflict continued with cross-border shelling, tragically claiming civilian lives on both sides. I wholeheartedly align with my colleagues across the political spectrum in supporting the current ceasefire and ensuring that those responsible for the April 22 attack are held accountable for the despicable act of violence. Hindu American Foundation earlier expressed their disappointment as the senator did not condemn the attack and instead peddled some biased narratives of India's religious persecution. "California is home to one of the largest Indian and Hindu American communities. When constituents reach out about terrorism, they deserve moral clarity and respect, not dismissive rhetoric that shifts blame onto the victims," the foundation earlier wrote before the senator issued a rectified statement.
Time of India
14-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
UC Berkeley rejects Hindu Heritage Month: Sparks debate on cultural identity and nationalism
UC Berkeley vote on Hindu Heritage Month raises concerns over cultural bias. (AP Photo) A controversial vote by the Associated Students of the University of California, Berkeley (ASUC) to reject a Hindu Heritage Month proposal has sparked widespread debate over cultural recognition and political sensitivities. A seven-minute video posted on X by @hinduoncampus captures the heated ASUC session, revealing tensions over the proposal's perceived links to Hindu nationalism . Authored by a Caribbean Hindu student, the bill aimed to celebrate Hindu culture but faced opposition for potentially legitimising nationalist ideology in the US. The decision has fuelled accusations of hinduphobia and raised questions about the treatment of Hindu students in American universities. Fears of nationalist ideology Senator Isha Chandar led the opposition, arguing that Hindu Heritage Month could be used to endorse Hindu nationalism. She proposed an alternative resolution celebrating religious diversity across South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East, avoiding 'internationalist ideology.' Chandar also suggested Hindu Americans have privileges over other South Asian religious groups, framing the bill as potentially exclusionary. Senator Justin Taylor defended the proposal, frustrated by vague references to 'Hindu nationalist statements.' by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Villas For Sale in Dubai Might Surprise You Villas in Dubai | Search Ads Get Info Undo He questioned the relevance of linking a Caribbean student's bill to Indian politics, stating, 'People have no clue exactly what they're referring to.' The debate turned personal, with Taylor condemning 'absolutely disgusting' attacks against him. Allegations of bias and bullying The X post and video allege Hindu representatives faced bullying, with subtitles noting students 'ganging up' on the community's advocate. The ASUC president apologised for perceived attacks, but the bill's rejection—despite offers to amend terms like 'Sanatan Dharma' (pronounced 'suh-NAH-tuhn DUH-muh')—intensified claims of discrimination. While other heritage months passed, the Hindu proposal faced unique scrutiny. The Caribbean authorship added confusion, with Taylor asking, 'Why is India being dragged into this?' Subtitles emphasised the bill's apolitical intent, warning against 'discriminatory' outcomes, yet the session exposed deep divisions and mistrust. Debating cultural representation The controversy highlights challenges in recognising Hindu heritage amid global political concerns. The video's subtitles note Hindu Heritage Month's 'complicated history,' citing its occasional ties to 'nationalist rhetoric and Hindu supremacy ideology.' Critics argue the ASUC misunderstood the proposal, conflating cultural pride with political motives. Supporters view the rejection as a missed opportunity for inclusivity. Amplified on X, the debate questions how universities navigate cultural recognition without political bias. The ASUC's decision has sparked calls for better representation of Hindu students and a more nuanced understanding of their identity in Western academia. AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
Deccan Herald
06-05-2025
- Politics
- Deccan Herald
Congressman Thanedar accuses US administration of giving muted response to Pahalgam terror attack
Thanedar urged Hindu Americans to mobilise politically and called on Washington to treat India with the same strategic importance as other key allies, notably Israel.
