Hindu Americans rally behind Trump over Democrats' silence on Bangladesh violence

Dr. Bharat Barai, a prominent Indian-American community leader, has expressed strong discontent with the Democratic Party’s handling of issues related to India and its treatment of Hindu-Americans. Barai accused Democrats of using human rights concerns as a political weapon, particularly in their approach to India. This, according to Barai, has led to a growing dissatisfaction within the Hindu-American community, which has significantly shifted its support toward the Republican Party.

Barai pointed out that while the Democratic Party has been vocal about human rights abuses in various countries, they have failed to condemn the violence against Hindus in Bangladesh. He mentioned that over 100 Hindus were killed, temples were desecrated, and Hindus were forced to wear hijabs, but the Democratic leadership, including President Joe Biden, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, and Vice President Kamala Harris, remained largely silent on the matter. This lack of action has left many Hindu-Americans feeling insulted and humiliated, Barai stated.

In contrast, Barai noted that about 70% of Hindu-Americans voted for Donald Trump in the recent elections, a sharp increase in support compared to the previous elections. This shift, he explained, was partly due to Trump’s vocal stance on the rights of Hindus, especially in Bangladesh, and his actions that resonated with the community. Trump’s appointments of two Hindu-Americans, Vivek Ramaswamy and Tulsi Gabbard, to prominent roles also boosted his support within the Hindu-American community.

Barai emphasized that while the Hindu-American community is small, it is a significant voting bloc in key swing states. He mentioned that Trump’s margin of victory in states like Georgia, Pennsylvania, and Michigan was substantially influenced by the Hindu-American vote. In particular, Barai credited Trump’s strong statements about the plight of Bangladeshi Hindus for winning over many voters.

Looking ahead, Barai expressed confidence that the relationship between India and the United States will continue to strengthen under the next administration. He pointed to the close bond between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former President Donald Trump, which was evident during Trump’s visit to India. The partnership between the U.S. and India, particularly in the Quad alliance with Japan and Australia, is expected to grow stronger as both nations continue to address the growing threat posed by China in the Indo-Pacific region.

Barai concluded by stating that Hindu-Americans played a crucial role in Trump’s success, especially in the crucial battleground states. He believes that Trump’s approach to India, his support for Hindu rights, and his clear stance on global issues will continue to win the trust of the community.