‘My grandfather was imprisoned for Gandhi…’: Ro Khanna criticizes MAGA author for labeling colonization as a ‘positive’ for developing nations.

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Ro Khanna’s Response to Colonization Praise

Indian-origin lawmaker Ro Khanna recently criticized MAGA commentator Jesse Kelly after the latter praised colonization in a post on X. Kelly claimed colonization was “one of the greatest things” to happen in countries he referred to as backward and attributed criticism of Western history to “communist education.”

Khanna’s Perspective on Colonial Impact

In response, Khanna argued that Kelly had it “exactly backwards.” He emphasized the impact that freedom fighter Mahatma Gandhi had on civil rights movements worldwide, particularly highlighting his influence on Martin Luther King Jr. (MLK). Khanna noted that MLK was a significant political figure who fought for the dignity and recognition of marginalized communities in the United States.

Personal Ties to the Struggle for Freedom

Khanna expressed pride in his grandfather, who was imprisoned for his role in Gandhi’s freedom movement against British rule in India. This connection to his family’s history strengthens Khanna’s stance against colonization. His maternal grandfather, Amarnath Vidyalankar, was a dedicated participant in India’s independence movement, collaborating with revolutionary leaders such as Lala Lajpat Rai.

Background of Ro Khanna

Born in Philadelphia during the US bicentennial, Ro Khanna is the son of Indian immigrants from Punjab. His father is a chemical engineer educated at IIT and the University of Michigan, while his mother was a schoolteacher.

Political Context: Opposition to Military Actions

Khanna’s remarks come amid escalating tensions following a recent US military operation in Venezuela, dubbed Operation Absolute Resolve. This attack reportedly resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and raised concerns over constitutional violations and the potential for unnecessary military conflict.

Advocating for Congressional Action

In the wake of the military actions, Khanna is rallying for Congress to take a clear stance. In a post on X, he stated: “As a response to the illegal strikes in Venezuela, Congress must force votes and debate every day this month on War Power Resolutions to prevent Trump from invading: Cuba, Colombia, Greenland, Nigeria, Panama, and Iran.”

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