In a public statement, the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) congratulated US President-elect Donald Trump on his second, historic victory in the United States presidential election. VHP international president Alok Kumar expressed optimism that Trump’s leadership could foster a global atmosphere that better respects Hindu communities worldwide and strengthen India-US relations.
Trump’s electoral triumph marks a unique comeback, as he becomes the 47th US president after having previously served as the 45th. His success is a rare instance in American politics, making him the first president in over a century to return to the White House after a non-consecutive term. The Republican candidate defeated Democratic opponent Kamala Harris in a tightly contested race, clinching the necessary 270 electoral votes. The victory is being hailed by his supporters as a renewed mandate to bring back his ‘Make America Great Again’ vision, which he initially championed in 2016.
At 78, Trump has built his political career on a background in real estate and entertainment, using his experience to advocate for what he describes as American strength, economic security, and a direct approach to international relations. His re-election campaign saw a focus on the US economy, national security, and border control. His win represents a continued endorsement of these priorities, with international supporters hopeful that his policies will also positively impact their communities abroad.
VHP president Alok Kumar, in a video message, conveyed his congratulations to Trump and highlighted the shared values between the US and India. “We extend our best wishes for his historic victory,” Kumar stated, emphasizing the VHP’s belief that Trump’s leadership could create a “better atmosphere for Hindus across the world.” Kumar’s message also underlined VHP’s hopes that Trump, along with his “friend, Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” could jointly convey a strong message of human rights and democracy to the international community.
Kumar further cited Trump’s recent remarks on the safety and security of Hindu communities, particularly noting his concerns over the plight of Hindus in Bangladesh. Trump has previously spoken about the need to protect minority rights, including Hindu rights, and pledged that under his leadership, his administration would work to prevent attacks on Hindu communities worldwide. Kumar expressed his appreciation for these commitments, viewing them as a hopeful sign for improved security and dignity for Hindu populations globally.
Looking toward the future, the VHP president voiced high expectations for the advancement of Indo-U.S. relations. He stated shared democratic values between India and the United States, along with a commitment to human dignity and the rule of law, as a basis for cooperation between the two countries. “We hope that under Mr. Trump’s leadership, Indo-US relations will further strengthen,” he stated, suggesting that both nations could collaborate effectively to promote “global peace and prosperity.”
Trump’s victory has spurred discussions among Hindu leaders worldwide, many of whom view his administration as an opportunity for increased support for Hindu causes. The VHP’s statement follows widespread sentiment among its supporters and aligns with the views of Hindu organisations that have previously supported Trump. The organisation’s endorsement underscores a unique aspect of international responses to US elections, where religious and cultural communities see potential shifts in their own advocacy efforts depending on the outcome of American politics.
Alok Kumar concluded his message with a confident tone, expressing faith that Trump and PM Modi together would foster a strengthened relationship that supports mutual values of democracy, individual dignity, and a commitment to law. The VHP looks forward to the potential for these two leaders to forge a path toward global peace and prosperity while addressing the needs and concerns of Hindu communities worldwide.
