Kamal Ghorui
An Indian-origin founder has raised concerns over a rise in hate incidents targeting Indians living in the United States, calling for urgent attention and support through a post on X.Anita Ratnam, popular Indian dancer and founder of Narthaki.com, described incidents involving two of her friends who faced abuse despite being born in the US. In one case, a US-born individual was travelling on the New York City subway when they were subjected to racist remarks, including being told to “go back to your country”. The incident highlights how such hostility is being directed even at those who are citizens by birth.Ratnam also pointed out another incident involving a US-born individual, who was spat on at a grocery store in Los Angeles. The case reflects how the issue goes beyond verbal abuse and can escalate into physical acts of disrespect and intimidation.Tagging the Indian American Advocacy Council, Anita called for support and intervention, urging authorities and community organisations to take note of the situation. Many netizens shared their own instances of facing hate crimes in America for being Indian. “Many people are not uniting. Still minding their own business. I am a victim of hate crime. Didn’t get support when the brutal attack happened. Indians were minding their own job as always,” wrote one user. “Indians need to start carrying bear spray for self defence. Spray and Leave ASAP. Don’t stick around,” advised another. The incidents underscore the rising anti-Indian rhetoric in the US. A recent study published by the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Centre found that discrimination and online hate against Indian Americans have been rising in recent years, with over 5.2 million Indian-origin people in the US facing growing concerns around identity, belonging and safety.
