NEW YORK (Diya TV) — New York City Mayor Eric Adams has launched a sharp attack on Democratic rival Zohran Mamdani, calling him “divisive, dangerous, and anti-Hindu.” The remarks mark a new flashpoint in a mayoral race that has become one of the city’s most bitter in years.
Adams took to X to criticize Mamdani’s record and warn voters against supporting him. “Zohran Mamdani’s record is clear: divisive, dangerous, and anti-Hindu. New Yorkers deserve a mayor who unites, not one who spreads hate,” Adams wrote.
In a later interview with the New York Post, Adams said the campaign had become the “nastiest” of his political career. He pointed to Gen Z voters rallying behind Mamdani and blamed left-leaning groups for fueling what he described as radical views. “Young people are being taught to hate their city and country,” he said.
Adams has rejected calls to drop out of the race, declaring that he is the only Democrat who can defeat Mamdani. “I am in this race. And I am the only one who can beat Mamdani,” he said.
Mamdani, who represents Queens in the New York State Assembly, has faced growing backlash from sections of the Indian American community. Critics accuse him of harboring anti-Hindu bias and using divisive rhetoric.
Born in Uganda to filmmaker Mira Nair and Columbia University professor Mahmood Mamdani, Zohran Mamdani became a U.S. citizen in 2018. Since then, he has risen quickly in New York politics as a voice for democratic socialism. But his outspoken views on religion and foreign policy have made him a controversial figure.
In past remarks, Mamdani accused Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar, the first Hindu-American elected to the New York State Assembly, of being a puppet of “Hindu fascists.” The comment drew sharp condemnation from Hindu leaders and political groups.
Mamdani also attended a 2020 protest in Times Square against the construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, India. Videos from the demonstration showed some protesters chanting anti-Hindu slogans, further fueling outrage.
Mamdani’s political positions extend beyond New York City. He has openly criticized Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party. Supporters say Mamdani speaks truth to power on issues of democracy and human rights. Opponents argue that his comments cross the line into religious prejudice.
The debate has intensified as Mamdani’s mayoral campaign gains traction. His platform blends democratic socialist ideas with promises to expand affordable housing and increase social services. For many progressive voters, Mamdani represents a break from traditional city politics.
Still, his critics insist that his rhetoric divides New Yorkers along religious and cultural lines. Community leaders warn that electing Mamdani would alienate Hindu voters and deepen existing tensions.
Adams has positioned himself as the candidate of unity. In speeches and interviews, he stresses the need to bring New Yorkers together across faith and cultural communities. He argues that Mamdani’s approach threatens that goal.
“This race is about unity versus division,” Adams said. “We cannot allow hate to guide the future of our city.”
As the campaign unfolds, both candidates remain locked in a battle over the direction of New York. For Adams, the fight is about defending his record and keeping control of City Hall. For Mamdani, the campaign is about reshaping the city through progressive policies.
If elected, Zohran Mamdani would become New York City’s first Muslim mayor. His candidacy has energized younger voters and progressive activists. But it has also exposed deep divides in the city’s political and cultural landscape.
With Election Day approaching, the contest is shaping up as a test of how New Yorkers view issues of religion, identity, and leadership. The clash between Adams’ call for unity and Mamdani’s push for change could define the city’s political future.
