Indian-origin US Army soldier Shilpa Chaudhary sparks debate: ‘Why are Indians protesting for Iran’s leader?’

An Indian-origin soldier serving in the United States Army has sparked debate online after posting a video questioning protests in India held in response to the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Shilpa Chaudhary, an Indian-born US Army specialist who shares updates about her military life on social media under the handle @indianmominusarmy, posted the message on Instagram, addressing people in India who have taken to the streets following the recent US–Israeli strikes on Iran. Her comments, delivered partly in Hindi, have circulated widely online and drawn mixed reactions across social media platforms.

Who is Shilpa Chaudhary

Chaudhary is an Indian-born soldier serving in the United States Army and holds a US Green Card. She joined the military at the age of 38 and has developed a growing following on platforms including YouTube, Instagram and TikTok, where she regularly posts about her training, duties and experiences. According to her public profile, she serves as a Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) specialist and is also a mother of three.

In her video caption, Chaudhary said she wanted to address the situation carefully. “As an Indian citizen serving in the U.S. Army, I want to speak from a place of care and concern, not controversy. I understand that many people feel strong emotions about what is happening in the world right now, especially recent events related to the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader and the reactions it has sparked.” She urged viewers to think carefully before joining demonstrations over events taking place outside the country. “However, I want to encourage everyone to think carefully before joining protests or demonstrations about events happening in another country. The facts are complex, and emotions can run high. We don’t want anyone to get hurt, face legal trouble, or be in danger because of situations with a lot of uncertainty.” She added that people should prioritise safety and dialogue. “Your safety matters, and peaceful dialogue, staying informed from reliable sources, and engaging in respectful conversations are better ways to make your voice heard without putting yourself or others at risk.”

Questioning protests in India

In the video itself, Chaudhary addressed protests that have taken place in parts of India following the killing of Khamenei in US–Israeli strikes. She said she did not feel like celebrating Holi this year because of the global situation. At the same time, she questioned the practical purpose of demonstrations taking place in India over events occurring thousands of kilometres away. “What I want to ensure is that I don't want the people of India to be made a mockery of, which is happening worldwide. Maybe you don't realise it while sitting there (in India), but I can see a lot from where I am now.” She continued: “Protests are being held in India in various places. I understand that you are religiously very hurt right now. I won't comment on that. But I have a question for you: I just want to know how the protests you are holding where you live, disturbing things in your area, are going to benefit you? What are you demanding from your state government? What will they do? How were they involved?”Chaudhary also questioned the character of the late Iranian leader, suggesting that reactions within Iran itself appeared different from the protests elsewhere.“People in Iran themselves are celebrating Khamenei’s death. If he were truly a good person, would people in his own country celebrate his death?” she said. In another part of the video she said that demonstrations in India could affect how the country is perceived internationally. “I don't want the people of India to be made a laughingstock worldwide.” “ So please, open your eyes a little. Think a little bigger. India is looked upon with great respect worldwide; please don't tear that respect to shreds. Please, think big, be safe, and love the country where you live. Don't force people to say that if you love another country so much, you should go and live there.”

Addressing religion and extremism

Chaudhary also clarified that her comments were not directed against any particular religious group. “I am not anti-Muslim.” She said she has a Muslim best friend and spoke about celebrating Eid together and sharing traditional dishes such as sheer khurma. Her criticism, she said, was directed at extremism or radicalism rather than any religion.

Khamenei’s death and regional escalation

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who had led the Islamic Republic since 1989 following the death of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, was killed during the first wave of US–Israeli air strikes on Iran last week. The strikes targeted Iran’s missile and nuclear infrastructure and also killed several senior Iranian officials. Iran has since launched retaliatory attacks against Israel and US assets in the Middle East, including sites in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Bahrain. Israel and the United States have continued to carry out further strikes in Iran. Israel later said its fighter jets had also destroyed an underground bunker used by Khamenei.

Mixed reactions online

Chaudhary’s remarks quickly circulated across social media, where they drew both support and criticism.Some users said her message encouraged restraint and urged people to focus on local issues, while others argued that citizens have the right to protest international events they feel strongly about.Others questioned why she was addressing protesters in India while serving in the US military involved in the strikes themselves, with some saying her comments overlooked civilian casualties, the destruction caused by the conflict and concerns raised about violations of international law.