St. Paul, Minnesota; March 17, 2026 — A resolution condemning Hinduphobia and anti-Hindu bigotry has been introduced in the Minnesota Senate, drawing support from members of the state’s Hindu community and allied organizations.
The measure, SF 4115, was introduced on March 9 and seeks to formally recognize discrimination faced by Hindu Americans while reaffirming Minnesota’s commitment to religious freedom, pluralism, and mutual respect.
According to organizers, more than 400 Minnesotans signed a letter urging lawmakers to pass the resolution. The letter calls for increased awareness of anti-Hindu bias, improved mechanisms for reporting hate incidents, and broader inclusion of Hindu communities in diversity and anti-bias initiatives.
The resolution comes amid concerns raised by community leaders about incidents affecting Hindus in Minnesota and across the United States. During a hearing before the Senate Judiciary and Public Safety Committee on Monday, representatives from the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) testified in support of the measure.
Neha Markanda, director of CoHNA’s Minnesota chapter, told lawmakers that formal recognition of Hinduphobia is necessary to address what she described as underreported incidents. “Hate without a name often gets ignored,” Markanda said in her testimony, adding that official acknowledgment would help reassure affected communities.
Raj Dash, deputy director of CoHNA Minnesota, also addressed the committee, citing incidents such as reported hate speech targeting a temple in Edina, thefts at priests’ homes in Maple Grove, and past cases of vandalism and intimidation involving Hindu institutions.
Support for the resolution extended beyond the Hindu community. Ethan Roberts, deputy executive director of the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC), testified on the importance of addressing religious bigotry broadly.
“The Hindu community is clearly being targeted,” Roberts said. “We, as Jews, know the danger when hatred is minimized, dismissed or left unnamed, and that’s why this resolution matters.”
Community members and advocates say the resolution reflects growing recognition of anti-Hindu bias and the need for formal acknowledgment by policymakers. The measure has been referred to the Senate Judiciary and Public Safety Committee for further consideration.
Cover photo credit: Alexius Horatius/Wikimedia.
