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Ajay Bhutoria welcomes Mamdani’s win, flags concerns over policy stances
Bhutoria took issue with Mamdani’s alignment with anti-Israel activism and controversial slogans.
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Malvika Choudhary - Thu, 26, Jun 2025
- 13:26 EDT
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Ajay Bhutoria/ Zohran Mamdani / File Photo/ New York State Assembly
Prominent Indian American democrat Ajay Bhutoria hailed Zohran Mamdani’s victory in New York City as a “significant moment” for South Asian and Muslim representation, while also cautioning against elements of his campaign.
“Zohran Mamdani’s historic win in the New York City Democratic mayoral primary as the first South Asian and Muslim candidate to secure a major-party nomination is a significant moment for our community’s representation,” said Bhutoria, a advisor to former president Joe Biden.
Also Read: Mamdani lead in New York mayoral Democratic primary leaves businesses on edge
He credited Mamdani’s grassroots campaign for addressing the needs of working-class families through proposals such as free public buses, universal childcare, and rent freezes. “His campaign, driven by grassroots support and a vision for affordability… has resonated with diverse New Yorkers, from Queens’ South Asian enclaves to Brooklyn’s progressive hubs,” Bhutoria noted.
However, Bhutoria raised strong objections to Mamdani’s support for defunding the police and his public statements criticizing Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Hindu communities. “I am troubled by his policy to defund the police, which could jeopardize public safety, and his inflammatory statements against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Hindu communities,” he said.
Bhutoria also took issue with Mamdani’s alignment with anti-Israel activism and controversial slogans. “I urge Zohran to reevaluate these hateful and divisive policies and messages to better reflect the inclusive values of our community,” he said.
As Mamdani advances to the Nov. 4 general election, Bhutoria urged South Asian voters to critically assess his platform. “I encourage South Asians to critically evaluate his platform to ensure it aligns with our commitment to safety and unity, and respect for all communities, religions.”
Mamdani, 33, a New York State Assembly member of Indian-Ugandan heritage and the son of filmmaker Mira Nair and academic Mahmood Mamdani, secured the New York City mayoral nomination after defeating former governor Andrew Cuomo.
Backed by progressive figures including Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Mamdani’s campaign focused on affordability and public services, drawing strong support from working-class and immigrant communities.
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