India Day Parade Float Sparks Controversy

A planned float depicting the Ayodhya Ram Mandir at the India Day Parade in New York City has sparked controversy, with several groups condemning it as anti-Muslim and divisive. The float represents a temple built on a site contested between Hindus and Muslims, where a mosque was demolished by Hindu nationalists in 1992, leading to widespread violence. Organizations like the Indian American Muslim Council and the Council on American-Islamic Relations have written to Mayor Eric Adams and Governor Kathy Hochul, calling for the float's removal, describing it as a celebration of hate and bigotry. Parade organizers and supporters argue that the float is an exercise of free speech and a reflection of Hindu identity, emphasizing the parade's theme of cultural diversity. Mayor Adams responded by stating that there is no room for hate in the city but acknowledged that the First Amendment prevents the city from denying permits based on the content of speech. Tensions remain high as the parade approaches, with calls for inclusivity and tolerance clashing with accusations of promoting hate.