Texas Republican leader Alexander Duncan is under fire after publicly opposing the installation of a 90-foot statue of Lord Hanuman in Sugar Land, Texas, calling it a “false statue of a false Hindu God” and asserting that the United States is a Christian nation.
Controversial Remarks Spark Outrage
Duncan posted on X (formerly Twitter), questioning why the statue was allowed in Texas.
“Why are we allowing a false statue of a false Hindu God to be here in Texas? We are a CHRISTIAN nation,” Duncan wrote, sharing a video of the statue at Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple in Sugar Land.
He further cited Bible verses, including Exodus 20:3-4 and Romans 1:25, to justify his opposition to the statue’s presence, arguing against idol worship.
Hindu Groups and Netizens Respond
Duncan’s remarks were met with immediate backlash online. The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) condemned the comments, calling them “anti-Hindu and inflammatory” and filed a formal complaint with the Texas Republican Party.
HAF posted on X:
“Hello @TexasGOP, will you be disciplining your senate candidate who openly contravenes your own guidelines against discrimination — displaying some pretty sordid anti-Hindu hate — not to mention disrespect for the 1st Amendment’s Establishment Clause?”
Social media users also reminded Duncan that the US Constitution guarantees freedom of religion.
“Just because you’re not Hindu doesn’t make it false. The Vedas were written almost 2000 years before Jesus walked the earth. We are a nation of many faiths, and freedom of religion is a constitutional right,” one user commented.
About the Statue of Union
The Statue of Union, inaugurated on August 18, 2024, stands at 90 feet and is considered North America’s tallest Hanuman statue. Located at Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple, it symbolizes strength, devotion, and service.
The statue was envisioned by Sri Chinnajeeyar Swamiji and named after Hanuman’s pivotal role in reuniting Lord Ram and Sita. Temple authorities describe it as a spiritual landmark meant to spread hope, peace, and devotion for generations.
