A social media post by Indian-American politician Jenifer Rajkumar stirred a row after she described herself as the first Hindu-American elected to New York State office, with some users questioning her claim and even her name.
Rajkumar is a Democratic member of the New York State Assembly who wrote on X: “As the first Hindu-American elected to New York State office, I am proud to blaze a path for a new generation of Hindu Americans in leadership. Our values call us to take the High Road — embracing inclusivity for all, loving people of every background like family, and meeting hate with strength and resilience.”
She also posted a flyer which said "Taking the High Road," a April 12, 2026, discussion in Long Island City with Rajkumar and Hindu American Foundation Executive Director Suhag Shukla, addressing challenges for Hindu Americans.
Her statement drew mixed reactions. One social media user commented: “Jenifer is not a hindu name.”
As the first Hindu-American elected to New York State office, I am proud to blaze a path for a new generation of Hindu Americans in leadership.Our values call us to take the High Road — embracing inclusivity for all, loving people of every background like family, and meeting… pic.twitter.com/f23NcS11I8
— Jenifer Rajkumar (@JeniferRajkumar) March 5, 2026
Another user defended the lawmaker and said she played a role in promoting the Diwali festival in the United States: “Credit goes to NY State Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar to be the first Indian woman elected to NY State office. She is the first leader in regard to Diwali being an official public school holiday in NYC. Her inspiration led me to establish Diwali as a State of CT holiday.”
Rajkumar made history in November 2020 when she won election to the New York State Assembly. Her victory marked the first time a South Asian woman was elected to a state office in New York.
She was born and raised in Queens. Rajkumar is the daughter of immigrants from India who arrived in the United States with just $300 and a suitcase. She is the first member of her family to be born in the country.
Before entering elected office, Rajkumar built a career as a lawyer, academic, and public servant. She previously served as Director of Immigration Affairs for New York State, where she led a $31 million initiative to help immigrants access legal services. She has also worked as a civil rights lawyer, handling class action cases involving workers, tenants and women.
In addition to her work, she served as a senior adviser to the transition team of then New York City mayor Eric Adams.
Rajkumar studied at Stanford Law School and graduated magna cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania. Over the years, she has received several recognitions, including the Bella Abzug Award from the New York County Democratic Party and a “40 Under 40” Rising Star honour from City & State.
