Indian American lawmakers condemn anti-India act at Texas protest

Indian American lawmakers condemn anti-India act at Texas protest

Six Indian American members of the U.S. Congress have strongly condemned the tearing of an Indian flag during an immigration-related protest outside Frisco City Hall in Texas, calling the act hateful and expressing solidarity with the Indian American community.

Representatives Raja Krishnamoorthi, Ami Bera, Pramila Jayapal, Ro Khanna, Shri Thanedar, and Suhas Subramanyam issued a joint statement after a demonstrator tore an Indian flag amid anti-India chants and rhetoric during the protest. The incident quickly gained attention on social media and prompted concern among Indian Americans nationwide.

While reaffirming support for freedom of expression, the lawmakers emphasized that acts targeting a specific community cross the line into intolerance and discrimination.

“We strongly support the constitutional right to freedom of expression for all Americans. At the same time, we condemn the tearing of an Indian flag outside Frisco City Hall alongside hateful anti-India rhetoric, which continues to fuel anti-Indian violence and xenophobia,” the lawmakers said.

The members of Congress warned that such incidents contribute to growing concerns about harassment, discrimination, and anti-Indian sentiment. They stressed that no community should be subjected to intimidation or hate-based rhetoric.

“The Indian American community is an important part of our nation and deserves to feel safe and respected,” the statement said. “Leaders must speak clearly: hate targeting any community cannot be tolerated or ignored.”

The lawmakers also expressed solidarity with Indian Americans in Frisco and across the country, affirming that all individuals deserve to live free from fear, harassment, and discrimination.

Frisco, a rapidly growing city north of Dallas, is home to a significant Indian American population and has emerged as a major hub for professionals in technology, healthcare, finance, and other sectors. The incident has renewed discussions about combating xenophobia and ensuring the safety of diverse communities throughout the United States.

The six lawmakers currently represent the largest group of Indian American members serving simultaneously in the U.S. House of Representatives and have frequently advocated for immigrant rights, civil liberties, and minority communities.