The float depicts the Ram Mandir, a controversial temple built on the ruins of a mosque destroyed in 1992, stirring criticism from several groups.
Organizations signed a letter to Mayor Adams stating, 'This float's presence represents these groups' desire to conflate Hindu nationalist ideology with Indian identity, but India is a secular country.'
The Hindu American Foundation defended the float as a celebration of free speech, while the organizers emphasized the diversity represented at the parade.
Mayor Adams' office indicated there is 'no room for hate,' balancing the concerns over the float's implications against the ideals of free expression in America.
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