US Congressman Shri Thanedhar condemned the recent anti-Indian incidents in Texas, calling them a “disgusting act of hate” and underscoring the contributions made by immigrants and Indian Americans to the country.The Michigan Democrat represents the state’s 13th Congressional District and is the first Indian American to hold the seat.He issued a statement on X in response to reports of anti-Indian rhetoric and protests in Frisco and other parts of Texas.“This is a disgusting act of hate. Racism has no place in our country. I came to America in search of the American dream. I was fortunate enough to get an education, build a business, create thousands of good jobs, and now serve my community in Congress,” Thanedar said.
Immigrants make our country stronger. Indian Americans, and the incredible talent they bring to every field, hold a special place in the American story. I am proud to be an Indian American, and I will always stand against hate and racism in all its forms.
“Thanedar’s statements come after a series of incidents that raised concerns about anti-India and anti-Hindu sentiments in Texas.In Frisco, public meetings saw some speakers use phrases like “Indian takeover” while making offensive comments about the American Indian population and elected officials.
Racist remarks were directed at the local Indian community amid discussions about immigration and the H1-B visa program. A video clip of a man burning the Indian flag also spread on social media. In the clip, the man was also seen insulting the Indians.
Furthermore, MAGA journalists and investigative reporters have also documented what they call the “Indian takeover” of Texas, saying foreigners are stealing land, jobs and opportunities from Americans.
The establishment of Hindu temples on American soil has also been criticized by Christian nationalists.Elsewhere in Irving, masked protesters displayed signs reading “Don’t Indianize My Texas” and called Diwali “trash.” Some protest banners also targeted Hindu beliefs and Indian immigrants. Hindu organizations and civil rights groups condemned the demonstrations.Thanedar has been one of the most vocal Indian-American legislators on issues related to anti-Indian and anti-Hindu hatred in the United States.
Last year, he reintroduced a Congressional resolution condemning Hindu hatred, citing what he described as a “troubling rise in anti-Hindu sentiment” and incidents of racism, xenophobia and violence targeting the American Hindu community.He said at the time that “hate in any form threatens the fabric of our society” and said the United States “will not tolerate intolerance.”The congressman also opposed online attacks targeting Indian Americans. Earlier this year, he publicly criticized a social media post suggesting Indian-origin Congress members be sent on a “one-way flight to Mumbai.”