Hindutva and the American Dream: A Case for Inclusion and Representation
A Counter-Narrative to Hindutva in America Report by Rutgers University
American Hindus Against Defamation (AHAD) response to report by Rutgers University’s Center for Security, Race, and Rights
“Hindutva and American Dream – Response to Hindutva in America Report,” serves as a systematic rebuttal to, “Hindutva in America: An Ethnonationalist Threat to Equality and Religious Pluralism.” It critically analyzes the original report’s methodologies, including its sentiment, bias, intent, and emotion analysis, arguing that it uses loaded language, false equivalences, and cherry-picking to misrepresent Hindutva. The response defends American Hindu organizations like HinduPACT and Sewa International, highlighting their humanitarian work and civic engagement as protected democratic activities rather than foreign interference or extremism. Furthermore, it asserts that Hindutva represents the cultural and civilizational essence of Hindu dharma, advocating for its accurate and dignified portrayal while challenging what it identifies as Hinduphobia in academic and public discourse.
