THE outcome of the 2024 US presidential election, which saw Donald Trump reclaim the White House, has sparked global discussions. While US elections often impact international affairs, Trump’s victory has led to unique interpretations in India, where some media see it as a symbolic win for Indian Americans and Hindu nationalism. However, this perception largely reflects a media narrative. In reality, geopolitical factors and domestic US concerns were key influences on the election’s outcome.
Indian media, particularly those aligned with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), portray Trump’s return as favourable to Indian interests, suggesting his policies might strengthen Indo-US relations and counter China and Pakistan. Trump’s perceived closeness to the BJP and Prime Minister Modi bolsters this view, with some in Indian media suggesting that influential Indian Americans could hold sway in his Administration. However, not all Indian-Americans align with Hindu nationalism or Hindutva ideologies.
Indian media have cast Trump’s win as a validation for supporters of Hindu nationalism, viewing his policies as potentially beneficial to India both strategically and economically. Yet, this view may be aspirational, as the actual implications remain uncertain. The 2024 election highlighted influential demographic shifts within the US, with both Indian-origin and Arab-Muslim voters emerging as impactful groups. Approximately 2.6 million voters in the US are of Indian descent, while Arab and Muslim voters make up around 3.5 million of the total 160 million electorate.
Arab and Muslim voters, disillusioned by Biden’s policies—particularly on the Gaza conflict—shifted support toward Trump and independent candidate Jill Stein, both of whom campaigned on non-interventionist promises. Trump’s pledge to end “endless wars” resonated, as did Stein’s emphasis on fair diplomacy. Biden’s approach, especially on Middle Eastern issues, faced criticism, especially among younger Arab and Muslim Americans. Trump’s rhetoric has appealed to those desiring less US intervention and his second-term Administration may prioritize stability in the Middle East over direct involvement.
Trump’s foreign policy approach in South Asia is anticipated to shift, with some speculating he may adopt a more assertive stance. In Pakistan, for instance, there is talk that Trump might support former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s return to power. In Bangladesh, Chief Adviser Prof. Muhammad Yunus of the interim government may face challenges due to his ties to the Democratic Party.
Indian-American voters are believed to have contributed significantly to Trump’s win, yet support for him is not universally bipartisan in India. The major opposition party favours the Democratic Party, reflecting a divided view of Trump’s return. His commitment to reassess alliances and end prolonged conflicts was pivotal, especially among Arab and Muslim voters who contributed to a shift away from Democrats.
Trump’s return has stirred mixed reactions globally. Indian media and Hindu nationalist supporters view it as a potential boost to India’s regional position. However, this outlook may not fully align with Trump’s policies on South Asia. As Trump’s Administration unfolds, the global community will closely observe any changes in US foreign policy. The “Hindutva conquest” narrative in Indian media may be exaggerated, yet it underscores the global reach of US politics. Diverse communities—whether in India, the Middle East or elsewhere—are interpreting Trump’s return in ways that align with their unique interests and perspectives.
—The writer is political and defence analyst based in Bangladesh.
