NEW YORK (Diya TV) — Harmeet Dhillon, the U.S. Department of Justice’s assistant attorney general for civil rights, said that her parents left India in the 1970s partly because the country was a “Russian client.” She made the remarks during a speech at a Moms for Liberty Foundation event on Ellis Island. Dhillon shared her immigration story and described becoming a U.S. citizen at age 10 as the “greatest gift” from her parents. Her comments have drawn attention for their reference to India’s political and economic climate during the Cold War era.
Dhillon said her parents arrived in the United States during a shortage of doctors linked to the Vietnam War. They landed at John F. Kennedy International Airport and began a new life while her father worked as an orthopedic surgeon. Dhillon said her parents sought better opportunities and greater personal freedom. She claimed India at the time had a “planned economy” and policies that limited family choices.
“They didn’t want to raise their kids in that kind of environment,” Dhillon said during her speech.
Dhillon’s remarks appeared to reference policies under former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. During the mid-1970s, India faced economic challenges and population concerns. The government promoted family planning programs. These campaigns encouraged sterilization after two children. The effort became controversial during the Indian Emergency, when civil liberties were suspended.
Reports later alleged cases of forced sterilization. The issue remains a sensitive chapter in India’s history. Dhillon also mentioned long-standing U.S. views that India leaned toward the Soviet Union during the Cold War. India has historically rejected the idea that it acted as a client state, instead promoting a policy of non-alignment.
Dhillon framed her family’s journey as part of the American Dream. She spoke about her rise in law and public service. She noted that her father, who died about 15 months ago, saw her achieve key milestones.
“He got to see his daughter become the lawyer for the former and the future president of the United States,” she said.
Dhillon also described her Senate confirmation experience. She said her mother and brother attended the hearing and watched her respond to questions from lawmakers.
In her speech, Dhillon highlighted her legal work and advocacy. She said she represents parents and children in disputes over education and healthcare decisions. She also criticized what she called “state overreach” in certain policies across the United States. Dhillon said she supports parental rights and individual freedoms. She added that Donald Trump and Pam Bondi contacted her because of her past legal work. Dhillon has been involved in several high-profile political and legal cases in recent years.
The “Sea to Shining Sea” gala hosted by Moms for Liberty marked both the group’s fifth anniversary and celebrations tied to America’s 250th anniversary. Organizers held the gala at Ellis Island, a historic gateway for millions of immigrants. The evening featured speakers focused on themes of legal immigration, liberty and opportunity in the United States.
Dhillon ended her remarks by describing her life as an “American success story.” She said her journey reflects the opportunities available in the United States for immigrants seeking a better future.
