‘Jennifer is not a Hindu name’: Indian-American congressman sparks controversy after announcing event about Hindu identity

Indian-American politician Jenifer Rajkumar sparked controversy when she posted on social media that she was the first Indian-American elected to public office in New York state, with some users questioning her claims and even her name.Rajkumar, a Democratic member of the New York State Assembly, wrote onShe also posted a flyer that read “Take the Right Path,” a discussion with Rajkumar and Suhag Shukla, executive director of the Hindu American Foundation, in Long Island City on April 12, 2026, about the challenges facing Hindu Americans.Her comments drew mixed reactions. One social media user commented: “Jennifer is not a Hindu name.”Another user defended the lawmaker and said she played a role in promoting Diwali in the United States: “New York State Congresswoman Jenifer Rajkumar became the first Indian woman elected to public office in New York State. She was the first leader to make Diwali an official holiday for New York City public schools. Her inspiration inspired me to make Diwali a Connecticut state holiday.”Rajkumar made history by winning the New York State Assembly election in November 2020. Her victory marks the first time a South Asian woman has been elected to New York state government.She was born and raised in Queens. The daughter of Indian immigrants, Rajkumar came to the United States with only $300 and a suitcase. She was the first member of the family born in the country.Rajkumar spent his career as a lawyer, academic and civil servant before entering elected office. She previously served as New York State’s immigration director, where she led a $31 million program to help immigrants obtain legal services. She also worked as a civil rights attorney handling class action cases involving workers, tenants, and women.In addition to her work, she served as a senior advisor to then-New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ transition team.Rajkumar attended Stanford Law School and graduated magna cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania. She has received numerous recognitions over the years, including the Bella Abzug Award from the New York County Democratic Party and the “40 Under 40” Rising Star honors from the City and State of New York.