Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi energized the Indian community in the U.S. on Sunday, emphasizing the strength of the diaspora ahead of the upcoming U.S. presidential election in November, as well as the importance of democracy and the 2024 electoral contest. Speaking to a large crowd in New York’s Long Island suburbs, Modi avoids commenting on the race between U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, who has Indian roots, and former President Donald Trump.
He noted the significance of 2024 on the world stage, drawing attention to both global conflicts and the celebration of democracy in several countries, including India and the U.S. With approximately 4.5 million people in the U.S. identifying as of Indian descent, according to the 2020 Census, Modi’s message held strong resonance within the community.
Modi, who secured a historic third term earlier this year, also met with U.S. President Joe Biden in Delaware as part of the Quad group, which includes Australia and Japan. Although human rights were not publicly addressed during the Modi-Biden talks, U.S. officials met with Sikh advocates prior to the meeting to discuss concerns facing the community in the U.S.
