NEW YORK — Representatives of Muslim, Hindu, Sikh, Christian, Dalit and interfaith organisations gathered outside Madison Square Garden on Saturday to protest what they termed as a platform for hate speech, following remarks made by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat in India.
The protest, organised under the banner “No Platform for Hate,” brought together members of the Islamic Society of North America, Hindu American Foundation, Sikh American Legal Defence Fund, and other organisations who expressed concern over Bhagwat’s comments about India’s Muslim population.
“We are here today to send a clear message that no platform exists for hate speech, whether it comes from the United States or elsewhere,” said a spokesperson for the Islamic Society of North America, one of the lead organisers of the demonstration.
The demonstrators carried signs reading “No Platform for Hate” and “Religious Freedom for All,” while chanting slogans calling for accountability of those who promote divisive rhetoric.
Analysis: The protest reflects growing concern among American faith communities about the export of India’s domestic religious tensions to the diaspora. Organisers framed their action as consistent with American values of religious pluralism and free speech, while implicitly critiquing how certain Hindu nationalist narratives may undermine those principles.
The gathering attracted roughly 200 participants, according to organiser estimates, who maintained peaceful vigil outside the venue where Bhagwat was scheduled to speak.
“This is not about politics, it’s about protecting the integrity of our shared democratic values,” said the spokesperson, adding that the protest was part of a broader campaign against hate speech that transcends religious and national boundaries.
The event at Madison Square Garden was organised by a group of Indian-American professionals, according to reports, though organisers declined to provide further details about the event’s structure or Bhagwat’s speaking role.
American civil rights organisations have previously expressed concern about the conflation of Hindu nationalism with anti-Muslim sentiment, particularly as Indian diaspora communities grow in political influence across the United States.
The protest concluded without incident, with participants dispersing peacefully as New York Police Department officers maintained a visible presence nearby.
Sources
The Hindu – National
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/iamc-and-allied-faith-organisations-protest-against-mohan-bhagwats-event-at-madison-square-garden/article71390230.ece
Corrections
If you believe this article contains an error, contact Herald Express with the source URL and supporting evidence.
Story synopsis gathered from: The Hindu – National — source
