US University’s Hinduism Course Triggers Controversy Amid ‘Hinduphobia’ Allegations by Indian-American Student

A controversy has erupted over the University of Houston's course on Hinduism, with an Indian-American student accusing the institution of promoting "Hinduphobia" and misrepresenting India's political landscape. The student, Vasant Bhatt, has lodged a complaint with the dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, under which the course is offered.

The course, titled Lived Hindu Religion, is conducted online with weekly video lectures by Professor Aaron Michael Ullrey. Bhatt alleges that the professor described Hinduism not as an ancient, lived tradition but as a "political tool" used by "Hindu nationalists" to oppress minorities. He also highlighted a section of the syllabus stating that the term "Hindu" is a recent development not found in scriptures.

According to Bhatt, the syllabus further claims that "Hindutva, or 'Hindu-ness'," is a term used by Hindu nationalists to advocate for Hinduism as India's official religion while denigrating other faiths, particularly Islam.

The university has acknowledged the concerns raised and is currently reviewing the matter. However, an independent verification of these claims is yet to be made.

This controversy follows India's rejection of the latest report by the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF). India dismissed the findings as "biased and politically motivated," with MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stating that the USCIRF continues to misrepresent isolated incidents and cast unwarranted doubts on India's multicultural society.