Indian-American Congressman Ro Khanna Backs Resolution Condemning Hinduphobia

A US House resolution condemning Hinduphobia and anti-Hindu bigotry gained fresh momentum this week after Indian-American Congressman Ro Khanna announced his support, becoming one of more than 30 lawmakers backing the measure.

The resolution, introduced by Michigan Democrat Shri Thanedar , celebrates the contributions of Hindu Americans while condemning attacks on Hindu temples , religious discrimination and hate crimes targeting the community. The measure has attracted bipartisan support from both Democratic and Republican lawmakers, reflecting growing concern over reports of anti-Hindu incidents across the United States.

In a social media post, Khanna said he was proud to co-sponsor the resolution, describing Hindu Americans as an important part of the nation's diverse and multicultural democracy.

The resolution notes that Hinduism is among the world's oldest and largest religions, with more than 1.2 billion followers worldwide. It highlights values such as acceptance, mutual respect and peace, while recognising the diversity of Hindu traditions and belief systems.

According to the measure, more than four million Hindus have immigrated to the United States since the early 1900s and have contributed significantly to business, technology, healthcare, education, public service and entrepreneurship. It also credits Hindu traditions, including yoga, meditation, Ayurveda, philosophy, arts and community service, with enriching American society.

The resolution cites FBI hate-crime data and references growing concerns over anti-Hindu bias, vandalism and attacks on temples. It states that Hindu Americans continue to face stereotypes, misinformation, bullying, hate speech and bias-motivated discrimination despite their contributions to the country.

The measure also recognises the influence of Mahatma Gandhi 's philosophy of non-violent resistance on Martin Luther King Jr. and the US civil rights movement.

However, despite gaining more than 30 co-sponsors, the resolution remains before the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform and has not yet been scheduled for a vote. Supporters say it forms part of broader congressional efforts to combat religious intolerance, alongside initiatives addressing antisemitism, Islamophobia, anti-Sikh hate and other forms of religious discrimination.