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Indian-American activist shuts down anti-India hate at Texas council meeting: 'We are not forcing religion'
Suratran addressed concerns regarding the H-1B visa debate and pushed back against allegations that Indian professionals are a "threat" to local communities.
Discussions around the H-1B visa and Indian professionals in the US often spark strong opinions online and offline. A recent city council meeting in the US has now gone viral after an Indian-American activist strongly responded to anti-India remarks.
The Indian-American activist, identified as Neha Suratran, has caught the internet’s attention for calling out anti-India rhetoric during a city council meeting in Frisco, Texas. The incident took place during a recent council session, where Suratran addressed concerns regarding the H-1B visa debate and pushed back against allegations that Indian professionals are a "threat" to local communities.
According to a video shared on X by Shashank Mattoo, Suratran countered the narrative with data-driven arguments. “Statistically, the Indian community is associated with higher education, higher income, and lower crime rates. So if a group is associated with safer communities, stronger schools, and higher economic contribution, why are we afraid?” she said.
She further added, “If your goal is for your children to grow up in safe neighborhoods, high-performing schools, stable communities, then this is not something to fear, this is something to welcome.”
Addressing concerns around cultural identity, Suratran said, “Let me be clear about cultural visibility, we also celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas. We are not forcing religion onto you. Hinduism does not convert. Everybody goes to heaven, as long as you're a good person.”
(Also Read: Techie quits toxic US job, returns to India with ₹37 LPA salary: ‘I miss the US lifestyle’)
How did social media react?
The video quickly gained traction online, with many users praising her remarks and calling them a strong response to prejudice.
“Well said. Mutual respect is the foundation of any society. Proud to see Indian values of coexistence being represented globally,” one user wrote.
Another commented, “Indians in the US are builders, doctors, and engineers who have always embraced the American way of life. Targeting a community that believes in ‘Live and Let Live’ is a reflection of the attacker’s mindset, not the community’s contribution.”
Others echoed similar sentiments, highlighting values of coexistence, inclusivity and respect. “Coexistence, respect, and inclusivity are what make societies stronger. Proud representation of Indian values abroad,” a third user wrote.
“This is the major difference between other religions and Hindus. Wherever they go in the world they share the values and contribute the prosperity to that country by giving best of themselves,” commented another.
