The Rising Threat of Hindutva Radicalism in the US: A Call for Immediate Action
In recent years, the United States has become an unexpected stage for the spread of Hindutva radicalism — a hyper-nationalist, extremist ideology rooted in Hindu supremacism, distinct from the diverse and pluralistic faith of Hinduism. While the world watches developments in India, few are paying attention to how this ideology is quietly embedding itself in American communities, institutions, and even politics.
What Is Hindutva Radicalism?
Hindutva, coined by Vinayak Savarkar in the 1920s, is not merely a religious identity — it is a political ideology that envisions India as a Hindu Rashtra (Hindu nation), where minorities are second-class citizens. This vision is fundamentally incompatible with liberal democratic values, secularism, and pluralism.
While its most visible effects are seen in India — rising hate crimes, lynchings, media manipulation, and suppression of dissent — its influence has gone transnational. Diaspora communities in the U.S. have become both ideological and financial hubs for Hindutva groups.
The American Blind Spot
Despite the growing body of evidence, U.S. institutions and law enforcement have largely failed to acknowledge Hindutva extremism as a domestic threat. Here’s why:
1. Religious Camouflage
Hindutva groups often present themselves as cultural or religious organizations promoting Indian heritage. This masks their true agenda and shields them from scrutiny under the guise of religious freedom.
2. Model Minority Myth
South Asian communities, especially upper-caste Hindus, are often viewed through the lens of the “model minority” stereotype. This creates an illusion of harmlessness and respectability, allowing radical ideologies to grow unchecked.
3. Strategic Lobbying
Organizations like the Hindu American Foundation (HAF), Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP), and others have built strong lobbying arms in D.C., often aligning with conservative U.S. groups. This political proximity gives them undue influence and protection.
4. Lack of Awareness
U.S. policymakers and the public often conflate Hinduism with Hindutva, unaware that many Hindus themselves oppose the latter. This confusion delays meaningful intervention and fuels further radicalization.
Real-World Impact
Hindutva radicalism in the U.S. isn’t just rhetoric — it translates into action:
- Harassment if academics and activists, especially those critical of Modi or caste oppression.
- Intimidation of minorities within South Asian diaspora communities — particularly Muslims, Dalits, and Sikhs.
- Funding of far-right causes in India, including groups accused of hate crimes and violence.
- Infiltration into school curriculums, trying to whitewash caste, Islamophobia, and India’s human rights record.
What Must the U.S. Do?
The U.S. cannot afford to treat Hindutva radicalism as an “Indian problem.” It is a growing domestic threat, and action is overdue. Here are immediate steps that must be taken:
1. Designate Hindutva Extremist Groups as Hate Groups
Just like the U.S. tracks white supremacists, the Southern Poverty Law Center and other watchdogs should begin categorizing Hindutva outfits pushing hate speech or violence.
2. Hold Diaspora Organizations Accountable
Audit and investigate groups that fund or promote hate, both in the U.S. and abroad. Apply the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) to those lobbying on behalf of Indian political parties like the BJP.
3. Protect Vulnerable Minorities Within the Diaspora
Provide support for Dalit, Muslim, and other marginalized groups in the U.S. who face discrimination, especially in tech and educational spaces.
4. Support Academic Freedom
Stand with scholars and students targeted by online mobs and Hindutva pressure groups. Campuses must reject intimidation and defend open discourse.
5. Raise Public Awareness
The media, civil society, and influencers must help break the silence around Hindutva’s spread in the U.S. This is not about religion — it’s about a violent, supremacist ideology.
Final Thoughts
Fascism doesn’t always wear jackboots — sometimes, it arrives draped in saffron. The U.S. has a moral and civic obligation to confront all forms of extremism. Hindutva radicalism must be recognized, named, and countered before its poison further corrodes the values we claim to hold dear.
