Detroit, Michigan: Indian-American Democrat Congressman Shri Thanedar, representing Michigan, has drawn significant criticism online following a post on X (formerly Twitter) regarding a bipartisan resolution he introduced to address Hinduphobia. The resolution highlights increasing incidents of discrimination and hatred against the Hindu community in the United States.
Racism remains a serious issue in America, and we must unite to confront it,” Thanedar posted on X. “Simply look at the replies to any recent post mentioning ‘H-1B’ to witness the appalling rhetoric aimed at Indian Americans. This is why I introduced a bipartisan resolution to condemn all forms of Hinduphobia.”
The post aimed to draw attention to the hateful rhetoric often directed at Indian Americans, especially those associated with the H-1B visa program, which permits skilled foreign workers to temporarily work in the U.S. However, Thanedar’s remarks triggered a wave of criticism on X.
Detractors of the H-1B program used the opportunity to voice their objections. A commenter remarked, "Referring to H-1B workers as 'Indian Americans' implies that the program is fraudulent." H-1Bs are temporary work visas, and no one on an H-1B is an American.”
Another user argued that H-1B visa holders bring cultural conflicts, saying, “H1Bs are not Indian Americans. They are Indians with cultural norms that clash with ours. If they don’t treat their own people equally, imagine how they view Americans.”
A third individual accused H-1B workers of exploiting immigration policies, writing, “They move here, bring their spouses, and have anchor babies immediately. Then they buy homes, enroll in public schools, and wait for a green card. Many Indian friends I know have done this.”
Although Congressman Thanedar, who immigrated to the U.S. decades ago and frequently shares his story as an Indian American, has not directly addressed the comments, his office released a statement underscoring the resolution’s intent. “The congressman introduced this resolution to highlight the harmful prejudice faced by the Hindu community and to call for unity against all forms of hatred.”
The resolution and ensuing backlash come at a time when reports of hate crimes and xenophobic incidents against Indian Americans are on the rise.
“Condemning Hinduphobia is not just about supporting Hindus; it’s about upholding America’s values as a land of opportunity and mutual respect for all communities,” said Arvind Patel, a representative of the Indian American Advocacy Forum.
