US Republican leader sparks outrage over Texas Hanuman statue, defends 'false god' remark
Texas: In Texas, U.S. Republican Senate candidate Alexander Duncan has ignited controversy after calling the 90-foot Lord Hanuman statue at the Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple a “false Hindu God.” In his original post, Duncan wrote: “Why are we allowing a false statue of a false Hindu God to be here in Texas? We are a CHRISTIAN nation!” The comment drew immediate backlash from Indian-American communities and the Hindu American Foundation (HAF), who condemned it as anti-Hindu and inflammatory.
Facing criticism, Duncan attempted to defend his remarks, claiming he was merely “asking a question” and not opposing Hinduism. He argued that Americans should question idol worship and emphasised that his post was consistent with his Christian beliefs. Duncan’s campaign manager echoed this, asserting that he had not advocated policies to restrict Hindu religious practices and that his free speech was protected under U.S. law.
The HAF rejected his defense, with director Suhag A Shukla responding: “You are not just asking questions, you are spreading hatred against Hinduism. The First Amendment already allows freedom of religion, yet you portray Hinduism as a ‘false tradition.’”
The Hanuman statue, North America’s tallest, has faced criticism from some U.S. conservatives who labelled it “foreign” or “demonic.” Mainstream media coverage, including Newsweek, has also been criticised by Hindu groups for insensitivity.
This controversy comes amid broader concerns about religious intolerance and discriminatory rhetoric affecting Indian-Americans, a key voter demographic in U.S. elections. Analysts say such incidents could influence the community’s traditional political leanings, highlighting the delicate balance between free speech and respect for cultural diversity.
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Minor girl kidnapped and raped; main accused and two cafe owners held
Latur (PTI): A minor girl was allegedly kidnapped and raped by an 18-year-old man in Latur, leading to the arrest of the main accused and owners of two cafes where the crime occurred on December 4, police said on Saturday.
Police traced the girl within hours of registering the complaint. The accused, identified as Rihan Gulab Shaikh, was arrested based on the girl's complaint. Two others are owners of two cafes where the crime occurred, police said.
Police registered a case under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), POCSO Act, and the Prevention of Atrocities Act, an official said.
