Hindu group in US criticises Kamala Harris's links with Pakistani-American USCIRF member
- In Reports
- 03:33 PM, Oct 07, 2024
- Myind Staff
A US-based Hindu political group, Hindus for America First, has voiced concerns about Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris's ties with Asif Mahmood, a Pakistani-American member of the US Commission for International Religious Freedom (USCIRF). The group is questioning how her administration might approach delicate matters, including the Kashmir issue, if she is elected.
The group's leader, Utsav Sanduja, raised these concerns after the USCIRF issued a recent "India Country Update." The report claimed that religious freedom in India has significantly deteriorated throughout 2024, especially during the months leading up to and following the general elections. India sharply criticised the report, calling it "malicious" and asserting that it undermines USCIRF’s credibility.
Sanduja, who supports former president Donald Trump, posted a video on X in which Kamala Harris is seen commending Mahmood for his support. The video said to be recorded at Mahmood's home in June 2019, captures Harris stating, "He has been supporting me for so many years. When I made the decision to run for president... he is one of the first calls I made."
Mahmood, known for his strong connections with Pakistan's political leaders, announced in September that he would co-host a fundraiser for Harris with her sister, Maya Harris. Mahmood's links to Pakistan's government and political elite, who have long held critical views on India, have sparked further concerns among Indian-American voters.
“Kamala Harris is Pakistan's preferred choice this November. Indian Americans, we can do better,” Sanduja commented in another post. He added that the relationship between Harris and Mahmood “raises concerns about the direction a Harris administration might take, especially regarding sensitive issues like Kashmir.”
Hindus for America First, which officially endorsed Donald Trump last month, is backing the Republican candidate for the November 5 election.
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