Several American civil society organizations have lodged a formal protest with New York Governor Kathy Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams, condemning the inclusion of an "anti-Muslim" float in the upcoming India Day parade. The float, which features the Ram Janmabhoomi temple, is set to be a centrepiece of the August 18 parade, an annual event celebrating Indian Independence Day.
Last month, the Federation of Indian Associations NY-NJ-CT-NE revealed plans for a tableau showcasing the Ayodhya Ram Mandir at a curtain-raiser event held at the Consulate General of India in New York. The inclusion of this float has sparked controversy and led to significant backlash from various civil society groups, Middle East Eye reported.
In a letter addressed to Governor Hochul and Mayor Adams, 22 organizations voiced their objections. Among the signatories are the Indian American Muslim Council, various chapters of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, Hindus for Human Rights, the Federation of Indian American Christian Organisations of North America, the New York State Council of Churches, Genocide Watch, the Dalit Solidarity Forum, Sadhana: Coalition of Progressive Hindus, the Sikh Coalition, and the Ambedkar King Study Circle.
The letter argues that the float, which commemorates the Ram Janmabhoomi temple, is a celebration of the controversial demolition of the Babri Mosque and ongoing violence against Indian Muslims. The signatories describe the float as more than a cultural display, labelling it a celebration of anti-Muslim sentiment and religious supremacy. They emphasize that such a display is incompatible with American values and threatens community harmony and peaceful coexistence.
The organizations also expressed concerns that the float's inclusion will embolden Hindu extremists in the United States and promote a supremacist agenda. They urge immediate and decisive action to prevent the float's participation, asserting that it is crucial to protect diverse communities from divisive and inflammatory actions.
The protest highlights the role of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America (VHPA), an organizer of the parade and the overseas chapter of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, which is described as a militant religious organization by the CIA’s World Factbook. Another organizing group, Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), is under FBI investigation for alleged forced labour and exploitation of low-caste workers from India.
The New York Mayor's office, when contacted by Middle East Eye, did not specify whether any action would be taken in response to the protest letter. A spokesperson stated that Mayor Adams has always emphasized that celebrations in New York City should be inclusive and welcoming.
The spokesperson added that ethnic parades are an opportunity for communities to honour their heritage and celebrate their cultures, reflecting the city’s diverse makeup. The mayor’s focus remains on community unity and respect, with an emphasis on setting aside political disputes for the greater good.