During India’s Independence Day celebration in New York, an unexpected incident occurred when Mayor Eric Adams mistakenly referred to Pakistan multiple times in his speech. The event, held on August 15, saw Mayor Adams holding both Indian and American flags as he addressed the gathering.
According to reports from The Times of India, the Mayor mistakenly mentioned Pakistan instead of India on three occasions. The errors drew noticeable reactions from the Indian community in attendance, who were gathered around the Mayor and chanting slogans in favor of India.
In his speech, Mayor Adams mistakenly said, “It is the Pakistani people who continue to show that public safety is essential for our prosperity.” Later, he added, “I have known this community for a long time, Little Pakistan and Queens, you are the foundation of our city, so let’s celebrate your independence.”
The repeated mention of Pakistan instead of India led to some confusion and frustration among the attendees, with one member of the crowd eventually correcting the Mayor by reminding him that the event was about India.
It is noteworthy that Mayor Adams had participated in flag-raising ceremonies for both Pakistan’s and India’s Independence Days on August 14 and 15, respectively, at Bowling Green Park in Lower Manhattan. This has led to speculation that his slip of the tongue might have been influenced by the strong impressions from Pakistan’s celebrations the day before.
