Washington, Concern is growing among over 100 civil society organizations in the United States regarding the noticeable increase in Hindutva activism. These groups have voiced their alarm over the movement’s perceived threat to democratic and pluralistic values in the country.
According to Kashmir Media Service, a coalition known as Savera, which includes Indian American and partner civil rights groups from various faiths, races, and backgrounds, released a declaration highlighting the concerning ties between Hindutva supremacism and elements of the American far-right. The declaration emphasizes the danger Hindutva poses to democratic principles and the diversity of society.
Among the signatories of this declaration are several high-profile organizations, such as the Movement for Black Lives, Jewish Voice for Peace, the Muslim Public Affairs Council, and the National Lawyers’ Guild. These groups have committed to resisting the spread of Hindu supremacy by rejecting supremacist politics, combating Islamophobia and caste discrimination, advocating for human rights, and promoting an inclusive interpretation of Indian-American identity.
The initiative follows a report by Savera, titled “The Global VHP’s Trail of Violence,” which detailed the adverse effects of the Hindu supremacist movement within the United States. The declaration criticizes Hindutva supremacist organizations for masquerading as proponents of multiculturalism and diversity while in reality working to undermine community solidarity and legitimize far-right ideologies among people of color. This includes attacks on civil rights organizations, collaboration with far-right figures, dissemination of anti-Muslim misinformation, opposition to affirmative action and caste protections, and attempts to restrict free speech and academic freedom.
The declaration further states, “The deeply anti-Muslim project of Hindutva supremacy, which also serves as a caste dominance initiative, has a history of violence against Muslims, religious minorities, caste-oppressed groups, and indigenous peoples.” It highlights the detrimental impact of the Hindutva movement not only on Indian, South Asian, and Muslim Americans but also on the broader values of collective liberation and democracy.
The concluding message from the civil society groups underlines the importance of solidarity against supremacist politics and the collective responsibility to fight for a truly multiracial and democratic society, pointing out that the challenge posed by Hindu supremacy is a concern for all.