Indian-Americans are believed to have raised at least $10 million (approximately Rs 66.83 crore) for United States presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, PTI reported on Friday. The report said that at least two community members – Frank Islam and Shefali Razdan Duggal – have reportedly raised $1 million (approximately Rs 6.68 crore) each for the Democratic Party nominee for president.
While Clinton’s campaign does not give details of the major fundraisers and the amount of money raised by them, its National Finance Committee has listed more than 30 Indian-Americans who have raised and/or contributed more than $100,000 (approximately Rs 66.83 lakh). Some of the largest donors include Ajay and Vinita Bhutoria, who are understood to have raised more than $500,000 (approximately Rs 3.34 crore).
The Indian-American community is believed to be the second-largest source of funds for the Democratic nominee, behind only the Israeli-American community, according to the report. In contrast, Republican Hindu Coalition chairperson Shalabh Kumar has claimed to have raised more than $1 million for Republican Party candidate Donald Trump. However, non-profit body OpenSecrets said Kumar has contributed $220,100 (approximately Rs 1.47 crore) to the Republican National Committee.
About two million Americans identify as Hindus, with people of Indian origin dominating that group followed by others from Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and the Caribbean. The number of Indian Americans is pegged at around 3 million. Most of the Indian American community – nearly 65% – supports the Democratic Party, while 18% favour Republicans, according to a 2014 Pew survey.
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!