University of Houston reviews concerns after student claims course misrepresents Hinduism
An Indian-American student has raised allegations of Hinduphobia against the University of Houston, accusing a Hinduism course of distorting India’s political and religious landscape, reported gujaratsamachar.com
Complaint Filed Against Course Content
Vasant Bhatt, a political science major, has formally complained to the Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, alleging that the Lived Hindu Religion course portrays Hinduism as a “political tool” rather than an ancient, lived tradition.
According to Bhatt, Professor Aaron Michael Ullrey, who teaches the course, claims that Hinduism has been weaponized by Hindu nationalists and serves as a system of oppression against minorities.
University Reviewing Concerns
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The University of Houston has acknowledged the complaint and is reviewing the allegations.
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Bhatt shared excerpts from the syllabus, which states that the word ‘Hindu’ is a modern term not found in scriptures.
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The course allegedly describes “Hindutva” as a nationalist ideology used to denigrate other religions.
Wider Political Context
The controversy comes amid India’s recent rejection of the USCIRF’s (United States Commission on International Religious Freedom) 2025 report, which New Delhi called “biased and politically motivated.”
Meanwhile, Hindu on Campus, a student-led organization combating Hinduphobia, stated:
“Political disagreements are welcome, but fabricating extremism based on Hindu identity is unacceptable.”
Bhatt later criticized the university’s response, saying that rather than addressing his concerns, the department attempted to deflect the issue and discredit his complaint.
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