Remarks by visiting speaker in Dallas stir controversy; police complaint filed

By A Representative 

A speech delivered at a Hindu community event in Dallas has sparked criticism and led to a police complaint, after the speaker reportedly called for a boycott of Muslim businesses in the area.

The event, held on June 29 and organized jointly by the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation (GHHF) and the Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America (VHPA), featured Kajal Singhala—better known by her online moniker, Kajal Hindustani—an Indian social media personality known for her strident views on interfaith issues in India.

According to a statement published by GHHF, Singhala encouraged attendees to support Hindu-owned businesses and avoid financially supporting what she termed “jihadis,” a controversial term that critics say vilifies Muslim communities. Her comments reportedly urged attendees to prioritize hiring or buying from Hindu service providers such as carpenters, electricians, and milkmen, suggesting that money spent elsewhere could be used against the community.

While the event received limited media coverage initially, a group of local residents, including some Christian and Muslim community members, submitted a police complaint on July 3. They have asked authorities to investigate the speech as a possible hate incident.

In response, the Indian American Muslim Council (IAMC), a Washington-based advocacy group, and CAIR-Texas, a chapter of the Council on American–Islamic Relations, issued statements condemning Singhala’s remarks. IAMC described the speech as “dangerous and a direct incitement to economically marginalize” a community. CAIR echoed the concern, stating that “hate speech must be called out regardless of its source.”

Kajal Singhala has previously attracted both criticism and support in India for her outspoken social media presence, particularly on issues of religious identity. According to the India Hate Lab, a monitoring group, she has made multiple public appearances in India where her rhetoric has drawn controversy. She continues to be a prominent voice in certain segments of Indian diaspora gatherings in the U.S., where her speeches often focus on Hindu identity and cultural revivalism.

This is not the first time U.S.-based Hindu organizations have faced scrutiny over speaker choices. VHPA, in particular, has drawn flak in past years for inviting other speakers known for provocative views.

While advocacy organizations like IAMC have urged U.S. authorities to investigate the event and reevaluate Singhala’s visa status, there has been no official response yet from local law enforcement or federal agencies.

Community reactions in Dallas remain mixed. Some attendees defended Singhala’s comments as a call for economic self-reliance, while others warned against importing divisive politics from South Asia into the American context.

The Dallas Police Department has confirmed receipt of a complaint and said it is under review. No charges or investigations have been announced at this time.