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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India moving towards becoming global economic powerhouse: Kovind
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Amritsar (PTI): Former president Ram Nath Kovind on Friday said that with digital transformation, economic reforms and a strong focus on the ease of doing business, India is moving towards becoming a global economic powerhouse.
He was speaking after inaugurating the 19th edition of the Punjab International Trade Expo (PITEX) in Amritsar.
The former president said that this 19th edition of PITEX is being organised at a time when India is recognised as one of the fastest-growing large economies in the world.
Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the event organised by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) the former president, while referring to Punjab, said the state is a living example of courage, sacrifice and enterprise.
"The spiritual light of Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) inspires peace and humanity across the world. The heritage of Punjab is deep and inspiring," Kovind said, according to a statement issued by the PITEX.
The former president congratulated the PHDCCI for hosting the 19th edition of PITEX and suggested that the chamber should expand PITEX outside Punjab.
He proposed that a similar event should also be held in New Delhi.
