Alarm Bells for India-US Relations: Kamala Harris and the Kashmir Dispute

A Hindu political group in the U.S., led by Utsav Sanduja, has raised alarms regarding Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential candidate. They worry about her potential stance on the Kashmir conflict if elected.

Sanduja, a vocal supporter of Donald Trump, shared a video of Harris praising Asif Mahmood. Mahmood is a Pakistani-American with deep ties to the Pakistani government, raising red flags among Indian Americans.

Sanduja stated, “This relationship raises concerns about the direction a Harris administration might take.” The implications of her connections could destabilize longstanding Indo-US relations, a cause for alarm.

In the video, Harris expressed gratitude toward Mahmood, saying, “He has been supporting me for so many years.” Such comments made during a visit to Mahmood’s residence in June 2019 only fuel suspicions.

Sanduja emphasized that a Harris presidency would be “very destabilizing for Indo-US relations.” He urged Indian Americans to think critically about their support for her candidacy.

The concerns are compounded by a recent USCIRF report detailing the worsening conditions for religious freedom in India. This update highlighted increased repression, particularly around the general elections in 2024.

The USCIRF’s findings serve as a strong reminder of the political climate in India. With ongoing issues of religious intolerance, a sympathetic U.S. administration could exacerbate tensions further.

Sanduja’s call for Indian Americans to reconsider their support is significant. It reflects a growing unease within the community regarding the potential consequences of Harris’s foreign policy.

As the US election approaches, the stakes for Indo-US relations are higher than ever. The fear of losing ground in a crucial geopolitical partnership looms large.