Fri Jul 04 21:58:11 UTC 2025: **News Article:**
**NY Mayoral Candidate Mamdani Faces Hindu Right Criticism Over Faith and Views**
NEW YORK – Zohran Mamdani, a frontrunner in the New York City mayoral race, is facing a wave of criticism from the Hindu right due to his Muslim faith and outspoken stances on human rights issues, particularly concerning India. Mamdani’s potential to become the city’s first South Asian and Indian-origin mayor has sparked vitriol both in India and within its diaspora, with critics labeling him a “jihadi” and “anti-Hindu.”
Experts like Kayla Bassett from the Center for the Study of Organized Hate, see the attacks as a broader effort to demonize the Muslim community. These attacks are fueled by tensions between supporters and critics of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, especially regarding its treatment of religious minorities.
Mamdani has openly condemned human rights abuses in Gaza and India, drawing criticism from political rivals and members of Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). BJP parliament member Kangana Ranaut even questioned his Indian identity, suggesting he was “more Pakistani than Indian.”
A pro-BJP news channel in India alleged Mamdani receives funding from “anti-India” organizations, while a New Jersey group flew a banner over New York City warning against a “global intifada.”
Much of the backlash stems from Mamdani’s criticism of Hindu nationalism and Modi. He participated in protests against the destruction of the Babri mosque in 1992 and has referred to Modi as a “war criminal” due to his leadership during the 2002 Gujarat riots.
Despite the controversy, experts believe Mamdani’s campaign can mobilize South Asian voters who traditionally lean Democratic. Preliminary results show he performed well in neighborhoods with large Asian populations. Supporters emphasize Mamdani’s outreach to Hindu communities, including his participation in Diwali celebrations and advocacy for recognizing the festival as a state holiday.
Jagpreet Singh, the political director of DRUM Beats, asserts that the Hindu right’s criticism is not representative of sentiments within New York City. Singh emphasizes Mamdani’s authentic connection with South Asian groups, including Hindu Americans, who have “adopted him as their own.”
As the November election approaches, Mamdani’s ability to navigate these challenges and unite diverse communities will be crucial in his bid for the mayoralty.
First Piper 