Indian Americans Concerned About US-India Relations
A recent survey reveals that Indian Americans are increasingly optimistic about India’s future but harbor significant concerns regarding US-India relations, particularly under a potential second term for Donald Trump. Conducted by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and YouGov, the 2024 Indian-American Survey highlights the political attitudes of this demographic amidst recent tensions between the two nations. Key issues include the US indictment of Indian billionaire Gautam Adani and allegations of an assassination plot linked to the Indian government on American soil.
Trump vs. Biden: Perspectives on US-India Relations
The survey indicates that Indian Americans generally view the Biden administration’s approach to US-India relations more favorably than Trump’s first term. Interestingly, a hypothetical administration led by Kamala Harris is perceived as more beneficial for bilateral ties than a second Trump term. Partisan divides are evident; 66% of Indian-American Republicans believe Trump was better for US-India relations, while only 8% of Democrats share this view. Conversely, half of Indian-American Democrats favor Biden, compared to just 15% of Republicans. Given that a majority of Indian Americans identify as Democrats, this partisan alignment gives Biden a significant advantage in the eyes of this community.
During a meeting at the White House in February, both Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised each other’s leadership. However, Trump did express concerns about India’s high trade tariffs, labeling them a “big problem.”
The ‘Murder-for-Hire’ Controversy
The alleged plot to assassinate a separatist on US soil has not garnered widespread attention among Indian Americans, with only half of respondents aware of the situation. In October, the US charged a former Indian intelligence officer with attempted murder and money laundering for allegedly conspiring to kill Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a pro-Khalistan advocate based in the US. This incident marks a significant moment, as it is the first time the Indian government has been implicated in an alleged assassination attempt on a dissident abroad. India has stated its commitment to cooperating with the US investigation, and a panel in India has recommended legal action against the former intelligence officer.
Despite the gravity of the allegations, a narrow majority of survey respondents believe that India would not be justified in taking such actions if the roles were reversed, indicating a complex understanding of international norms and sovereignty.
Divergent Views on Israel and Palestine
The survey also reveals a split among Indian Americans regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict, with Democrats showing greater empathy for Palestinians while Republicans lean towards pro-Israel sentiments. Approximately 40% of respondents believe that President Biden has been too supportive of Israel amid the ongoing conflict. The recent escalation, which resulted in significant casualties on both sides, has heightened scrutiny of US foreign policy in the region.
As discussions about a fragile ceasefire continue, the Indian American community’s views reflect broader partisan divides, complicating the narrative surrounding US involvement in international conflicts.
Optimism for India’s Future
Despite concerns about US-India relations, the survey indicates a growing optimism among Indian Americans regarding India’s trajectory. Forty-seven percent believe the country is moving in the right direction, a notable increase from previous years. Additionally, the same percentage expresses approval of Prime Minister Modi’s performance. Interestingly, four in ten respondents feel that the recent 2024 elections, in which Modi’s party did not secure a majority, have made India more democratic.
This optimism coexists with a lack of awareness about significant political events, such as the alleged assassination plot. The survey suggests that many Indian Americans support Modi while remaining cautious about Trump’s potential return to power. This dichotomy raises questions about the community’s engagement with political developments in both the US and India, highlighting a complex interplay of identity, politics, and information access.
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