Controversy in Texas: Republican Leader’s Remarks on Hanuman Statue Ignite Backlash

A fierce debate erupted after Alexander Duncan, a Republican Party leader and Senate candidate from Texas, criticized the 90-foot ‘Statue of Union’—a statue of Lord Hanuman, the tallest in North America—calling it a “false statue of a false Hindu God.” The statue, inaugurated in August 2024 at the Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple, has faced ongoing backlash from some MAGA supporters on social media.

Duncan’s remarks, which referenced Biblical scripture prohibiting idols, sparked outrage among Indian-Americans and Hindu advocacy groups. The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) condemned the comments as “anti-Hindu and inflammatory,” calling on the Texas GOP to take action against the candidate for violating party guidelines and disrespecting the First Amendment’s Establishment Clause.

The controversy comes amid heightened tensions between the U.S. and India over tariffs and trade issues, and follows earlier inflammatory comments by Trump aide Peter Navarro targeting Indian communities. Social media reactions have also criticized Duncan for contradicting the Republican principles of freedom and opportunity for all.

The statue, built to honor Hindu faith and culture, has been a target of derogatory remarks, with some claiming it to be “demonic” or comparing its features to George Floyd—a claim widely denounced. News coverage has highlighted the cultural and religious sensitivities involved, drawing attention to the rising anti-Hindu sentiment in certain conservative circles.

The debate underscores ongoing challenges faced by Indian-American and Hindu communities in the U.S., highlighting the need for tolerance and respect for diverse faiths.