Several South Asian American organizations and lawmakers are speaking out against a float that will be featured in the India Day Parade in New York City, calling it overtly anti-Muslim. The float, which will showcase a model of the Ram Mandir Hindu temple built on disputed religious grounds in Ayodhya, has sparked controversy due to its association with the demolition of the Babri Masjid mosque by Hindu nationalists in 1992. Critics argue that the parade should not promote divisive symbols, especially in a diverse city like New York.
The grand opening of the Ram Mandir temple earlier this year by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has further deepened tensions between Hindu and Muslim communities in India. While the parade organizers have emphasized inclusivity by featuring floats from various faith communities, Muslim and progressive South Asian groups insist that the Ram Mandir float should be removed to truly reflect diverse values.
NYC Mayor Eric Adams expressed his disapproval of any display promoting hate and division, emphasizing that the city should be open to everyone. While he has a history of supporting the Muslim community, Adams was not invited to the parade and was not aware of its plans. Lawmakers urge New York to consider all South Asian communities and ensure that public celebrations do not include symbols of division or bigotry. Critics argue that allowing the Ram Mandir float in the parade sends a harmful message and emboldens Hindu extremists to promote their supremacist agenda, undermining the values of American harmony and peaceful coexistence among diverse communities.
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