Zohran Kwame Mamdani’s election as the 111th Mayor of New York City has caused strong reactions among Indians in both the United States and India.
Some people have called him “anti-India” and “anti-Hindu.” Others believe these labels are unfair and come from misunderstanding his ideas and identity.
Mamdani is an American politician of Indian and Ugandan Muslim background.
He is known for his left-leaning views and his support for social causes like affordable housing and workers’ rights.
He has also spoken out against religious nationalism and caste privilege in India, and against Israel’s actions in Palestine.
Because of these views, some groups see him as being against India or Hinduism; and a pure fanatic Islamist.
Critics among Indian Americans say he focuses too much on identity politics and uses harsh words for governments, which they feel hurts India’s image abroad.
But, the supporters argue that he is simply expressing his opinions on global issues, not attacking any religion or nation.
His being Muslim has also made him face extra suspicion, especially in a post-9/11 world where Muslims are often unfairly judged in the USA.
Many Indian Americans supported other candidates like Vivek Ramaswamy, who seemed closer to their values.
Mamdani’s win, however, shows that some voters wanted change and supported his promises to make New York fairer for all.
In the end, whether Mamdani is “anti-India” or “anti-Hindu”, he won the election. What he actually is, depends on how one interprets his statements.
On the other hand it should also be noted that the Democratic Candidate Mamdani's win despite some divide among the voters reflects the level of anti incumbency against the Republican Party.