NEW YORK: Newly elected New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani has called Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi a “mass slaughterer” and “war criminal.”
Mamdani, 34, a state assembly member before his historic election as the city’s 111th mayor this week, made the remarks during a media interaction that went viral on social media.
When a journalist questioned that “Modi is holding a rally in Madison Square Garden. He wants to hold a joint press conference with you afterwards, reaffirming the strong bond between India and New York. Do you agree to the event? Mamdani replied firmly, “No.”
Madison Square Garden is in New York where Modi had held a rally during his visit to the United States in 2014.
Mamdani added, “My father’s family is from Gujarat, and we are Muslim. Narendra Modi helped orchestrate a mass slaughter of Muslims in Gujarat to the extent that we don’t even believe there are Gujarati Muslims anymore.”
Mamdani compared Modi to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, describing both as “war criminals” for their roles in violence against minority communities.
The American Muslim mayor said his comments reflected his long-held views on human rights. He cited concerns raised by international watchdogs over Modi’s alleged involvement in the 2002 Gujarat riots that killed thousands of Muslims.
Human rights groups and global observers have repeatedly questioned Modi’s role in the violence, which occurred while he served as Gujarat’s chief minister.
Mamdani’s election as New York City’s first Muslim mayor marks a political milestone. But his outspoken remarks have stirred mixed reactions — supporters praised his moral courage, while critics accused him of risking diplomatic friction with India.
Despite the controversy, Mamdani said he stood by his words. “Leaders must be held accountable, no matter how powerful they are,” he said.
Zohran Kwame Mamdani has made history as New York City’s first Muslim and youngest mayor in a century. His victory marks a generational shift in the city’s dynamic political landscape.
