New Delhi: A recent survey conducted by the Indian American Muslim Council (IAMC) and ReThink Media has identified significant trends of Hindu nationalism, commonly referred to as Hindutva, and Islamophobia within the Indian diaspora in the United States, showcasing a troubling impact on social, professional, and digital interactions among Indian-American Muslims.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the study, titled “The Detrimental Effects of Hindu Nationalism on Indian American Muslims,” involved polling 950 Indian-American Muslims to assess the influence of Hindu nationalist ideology. The findings reveal that over 90% of participants perceive Hindu nationalism as a threat to their community. Additionally, 80% of respondents have encountered Islamophobic harassment, discrimination, or prejudice from Hindu acquaintances in their social circles. The workplace environment also reflects biases, with 70% of the surveyed individuals reporting discriminatory behavior from Hindu colleagues, including exclusion from promotional opportunities and exposure to anti-Muslim comments.
The survey highlights the broader implications of Hindu nationalism, exacerbated by the political climate in India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This ideological shift is markedly influencing the Indian-American community, fostering an environment where Islamophobia is becoming increasingly prevalent. Moreover, the use of social media platforms contributes to this issue, with 48% of respondents noting harassment and discrimination on digital platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and LinkedIn, leading to feelings of emotional drain, isolation, and hostility among the community.
IAMC Executive Director Rasheed Ahmed stated that the survey’s results confirm long-held concerns within the community about the divisive impact of Hindu nationalism. “This survey provides quantitative proof of what many Indian American Muslims have known to be true for decades,” Ahmed remarked. IAMC President Mohammad Jawad also expressed concerns about the influence of the Modi regime on Indian-American communities, highlighting the potential risks to social cohesion and international democratic values.
The data underscores the critical need for initiatives aimed at bridging divides within the Indian-American community, promoting dialogue, education, and policy reforms to counteract the rise of Islamophobia and Hindu nationalism. The Indian American Muslim Council is advocating for heightened awareness and proactive measures to address these issues, emphasizing the broader implications for democracy in the United States.