Georgia Introduces Historic Bill to Recognize Hinduphobia in Its State Penal Code

Atlanta, GA, April 14, 2025 — The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) proudly welcomes the introduction of Senate Bill 375 (SB 375) in the Georgia State Senate, a historic move to formally recognize Hinduphobia and anti-Hindu hate in the state’s penal code. This landmark legislation enables law enforcement and state agencies to account for Hinduphobia while documenting and responding to incidents of bias and discrimination. It marks the first time any U.S. state has taken such a step at the statutory level.

“This is a pivotal moment for the Hindu community in Georgia and across the United States,” said Mr. Rajeev Menon, Co-founder and Vice President of CoHNA. “SB 375 is not only a response to rising incidents of anti-Hindu hate, but also an affirmation that our community belongs, contributes, and deserves equal protection under the law.”

Crucially, this legislative effort would not have been successful without the leadership and tireless advocacy of the Hindus of Georgia PAC, whose deep engagement with lawmakers and grassroots mobilization played a vital role in bringing SB 375 to the table.

Specifically, CoHNA and the Hindus of Georgia PAC worked closely with Senator Shawn Still whose leadership paved the way for this groundbreaking development. “Senator Still has always been a staunch supporter of the Hindu community. His commitment to fighting Hinduphobia has been a beacon of hope for us”, said Ms. Shobha Swamy, board member of the Hindus of Georgia PAC. 

Her fellow PAC board member and senior Hindu community leader, Mr. Dhiru Shah, added: “Huge shout out to Senator Still and to all the members and supporters of the Hindus of Georgia PAC whose tireless efforts over the years to defend and protect the civil rights of the hindu community led to the development of this bill.”