Zohran Mamdani Faces Strong Backlash from Indian Diaspora Over Rhetoric on Modi, Palestine

Zohran Kwame Mamdani’s victory in New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary has triggered strong backlash from large sections of the Indian-American community, in both the U.S. and India, over his record, rhetoric, and some controversial or bold public positions, depending on the onlooker's political outlook and leanings.

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The 33-year-old first-time mayoral candidate, a self-described democratic socialist and son of Indian filmmaker Mira Nair, surged past former Governor Andrew Cuomo in a closely watched primary, riding a wave of progressive energy. 

But his rise has sparked criticism over what many see as divisive politics and polarizing statements, especially regarding India, policing, and Israel-Palestine.

In recent weeks, Mamdani has openly called Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi a “war criminal”. He even drew parallels to Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu over the 2002 Gujarat riots. 

The remark has been widely condemned across Indian-American civic and religious groups. He has been accused of misusing a local U.S. campaign to wade into complex international conflicts, which he may not entirely grasp at this crucial juncture when the ongoing tensions in geopolitics hint towards a building wave of something much bigger, and much sinister, in the making.

His past support for the slogan “Globalize the Intifada,” as well as a Times Square protest he helped organize earlier this year, which included chants and provocative imagery that many perceive as inflammatory has only deepened opposition against him. 

Several diaspora leaders say his alignment with separatist-linked groups and his refusal to tone down rhetoric risk importing foreign tensions into U.S. municipal governance.

Community figures have also flagged his stated policy to defund the police and redirect funding toward housing and public transit. Critics argue such proposals, while popular among some progressives, are out of touch with safety concerns in immigrant-heavy boroughs.

Meanwhile, backlash on Indian social media has surged severely. Mamdani’s past statements are being widely circulated and debated. Some commentators have accused him of pandering to fringe politics and of lacking any serious administrative or policy experience.

Despite criticism, Mamdani has drawn enthusiastic support from younger voters and activists. His support base has been energized by endorsements from some key figures. This may be a case study in itself for an unequal city in need of erratic bold reforms.

But heading into the election, Mamdani’s challenge may be less about rallying his base and more about reassuring a broader, more skeptical public. 

His past is under the microscope for now.