U.S. Lawmaker Ro Khanna Criticises Hindu Nationalism and Backs India Student Protests

U.S. Representative Ro Khanna stated he opposes Hindu nationalism and supports student protests in India, following his reelection to the U.S. Congress from California on November 3. Mr. Khanna serves as the Co-Chair of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian-Americans and previously led a U.S. lawmaker delegation to India in 2023 at the government's invitation, while also authoring the 2022 legislative amendment granting India waivers from CAATSA sanctions. Responding to queries on X about developments in India, including protests over examination leaks and voter rolls, Mr. Khanna mentioned his maternal grandfather, Amarnath Vidyalankar, was part of Mahatma Gandhi's independence movement. The Ministry of External Affairs did not respond to requests for comment on the remarks.

Reactions

Senior advisor to the Information and Broadcasting Ministry Kanchan Gupta criticised Mr. Khanna's comments, accusing Mr. Vidyalankar of supporting the 1975 Emergency imposed by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Simultaneously, the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom issued a statement expressing concern over what commissioners called vigilante attacks on Sikh gurdwaras in India. Punjab Police investigated gunfire cases involving gurdwaras in Ludhiana, concluding at least one incident involved gurdwara personnel and dismissing any religious angle. The Ministry of External Affairs has previously rejected USCIRF reports, accusing the body of presenting a distorted picture of India.

Context

Statements from foreign lawmakers and advisory bodies often draw sharp responses from government officials in New Delhi, who frequently push back against outside commentary on domestic issues. The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom operates as an independent advisory body rather than a formal policy-making agency of the U.S. government.