On Monday, Richard Verma, a senior US diplomat, strongly criticised recent racist attacks targeting Indian Americans, particularly in connection with derogatory comments about Vice President Kamala Harris. In his address at the Hudson Institute, Verma condemned the “vile and racist attacks” that have emerged on social media and television, emphasising that such sentiments are damaging to US-India relations and have no place in American society.
Though he did not name the specific incidents, Verma’s remarks clearly alluded to the recent controversy involving far-right conspiracy theorist Laura Loomer. Loomer, who has been associated with Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, made offensive comments suggesting that a Harris presidency would bring unwanted cultural changes. Verma, an Indian American himself, stressed the need to reject such divisive rhetoric and uphold the values of social justice shared by both the US and India.
Verma’s speech highlighted the importance of maintaining respectful dialogue and unity in the face of hateful language, reaffirming the commitment of both nations to supporting vulnerable populations and promoting inclusivity.
