NEW YORK CITY (TIP): The Indian Overseas Congress (IOC) USA hosted a remarkable celebration on Saturday, June 21, at the iconic Village East by Angelika theater in Manhattan, marking the screening of “The Renaissance Man”, a documentary film chronicling the inspiring life and legacy of Vivek Tankha. The event was part of the New York Indian Film Festival and drew an enthusiastic audience, including senior leaders of IOC-USA and distinguished members of the Indian diaspora.
The documentary highlights the extraordinary journey of Shri Vivek Tankha ji —Senior Advocate of the Supreme Court of India, former Additional Solicitor General, sitting Rajya Sabha MP, and a dedicated humanitarian. His contributions span multiple sectors, including public interest litigation, tribal healthcare, education, disability rights, and disaster relief. The film captures both his legal brilliance and his compassionate leadership, especially through his widely acclaimed initiative “Rahat”, which has provided critical medical and disaster aid to marginalized communities in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and beyond.
Photos of documentary viewing of film “ The Renaissance Man: Life and Times of Vivek Tankha” at the New York Film festival on June 21, 2025. showing Shri Vivek Tankha ji (sitting in center) responding to questions from the audience.
During the post-screening interaction, Mr. Tankha shared powerful insights into his motivations and lifelong mission to use law and public service as instruments for justice and upliftment. He spoke of landmark cases, including his pivotal legal work for the Bhopal Gas Tragedy victims, and emphasized the need for ethical and empathetic leadership in contemporary India.
The event was held under the leadership of Mohinder Singh Gilzian, President of the Indian Overseas Congress USA, who opened the celebration with high praise for Mr. Tankha.
“If even one percent of India’s population embodied the intellect, integrity, and compassion of Vivek Tankha,” said Mr. Gilzian, “India would be a different country. His life offers a blueprint for the kind of leadership our nation urgently needs.”
Adding to the evening’s grace and significance, Mr. Sam Pitroda, Global Chairman of Overseas Congress Department of A.I.C.C., sent a heartfelt video message applauding Mr. Tankha’s decades of service in law, policy, and social reform.
“Vivek is not just a legal scholar; he’s a people’s advocate. His work touches lives where it matters most,” Mr. Pitroda said.
The celebration was inaugurated with an inspiring and powerful opening remarks by Harbachan Singh, Secretary-General of IOC-USA, who recognized very highly Mr. Tankha’s awesome enduring legacy of justice and social responsibility. He likened all the solid attributes of Shri Vivek Tankha ji to those of Mahatmas and Heros and made a moving equation of his personality and service to them. Mr. Tankha embodied humility, softness and a profound depth of knowledge and human experience which has drawn crowds of people to him in total acceptance of him as no less than acclaimed Mahatmas and Heros.
The screening was more than a celebration of an individual—it was a tribute to a life of purpose, service, and vision. It resonated as a rallying call to the Indian diaspora to identify, support, and champion leaders like Vivek Tankha, whose integrity and impact go far beyond the boundaries of law and politics.
The event was graced by a wide array of IOC-USA leaders who honored Mr. Tankha with a bouquet and a traditional shawl, a symbolic gesture of respect and admiration. Among the IOC USA senior leaders present were: Working President (North East Zone) Pradeep Samala; Vice President John Joseph: Vice President Baldev Randhawa; General Secretaries; Sharath Chandra, Sophia Sharma and Rajeev Mohan; President of Maryland Chapter Chaudhry Pratap Singh; President of Andhra Chapter Srinivasrao Bhimineni; Chairman of the Punjab Chapter; Phuman SinghIbrahimpur; Secretary, IOC.USA Jaswinder Singh Kang and his team; Dr.Yogesh Dayma from Boston: Rockland Chapter President Shaimi Jacob: Amanpreet Aman and Mukesh (Mike) from New Jersey: Patel Sridhar Reddy from Telengana Chapter Detroit: Harpreet Singh Happy and Sunny Singh: Harvendar Singh and Qayam Masumi representing the New Jersey Chapter, among others.
In addition, several local IOC-USA leaders, business professionals, lawyers, dignitaries, activists, and scholars from across the United States traveled to New York to attend the event and personally extend their congratulations to Mr. Tankha.
The event concluded with a vibrant Q&A session, where attendees engaged with Mr. Tankha on a range of topics—from his legal battles and legislative work in Parliament to his grassroots efforts for the underprivileged and youth empowerment.
The screening was more than a celebration of an individual—it was a tribute to a life of purpose, service, and vision. It resonated as a rallying call to the Indian diaspora to identify, support, and champion leaders like Vivek Tankha, whose integrity and impact go far beyond the boundaries of law and politics.
At the reception, Secretary General Harbachan Singh led with the award of a Proclamation of Honor by Shri Vivek Tankha ji and Mohinder Singh ji to Attorney Jaspreet Singh in appreciation of his outstanding leadership, benevolent services and support of the community.
Following the above, Harbachan Singh requested the entire gathering to rise in solemn observance of a moment of silence in condolence and sympathy of the victims of the recent Air India airplane crash and sharing the sorrow and pain with the aggrieved families. Similar solemn observance was also observed to grief the sudden, shocking and painful to bear demise of the brother of Shri Vivek Tankha ji in India the day before this event accelerating the swift return to India of Mr. Vivek Tankha ji. May all the departed souls Rest in Peace! by the grace of Almighty God.
BOSTON, MA (TIP): In a warm and impactful address to the Indian diaspora, Hon. Shri Rahul Gandhi, Member of Parliament and Leader of the Opposition spoke to a packed audience at the Marriott Boston Long Wharf during a special Meet and Greet hosted by the Indian Overseas Congress, USA. The event drew attendees from across New England and beyond, eager to hear his vision for India’s future.
Gandhi ji began by expressing heartfelt appreciation for the community’s discipline and dedication. He noted that the Indian Overseas Congress and its members serve as vital ambassadors for the Congress Party and India itself. “Your presence and commitment bring great respect to our country abroad. This relationship we share is not merely political—it’s a bond of family, rooted in love, values, and mutual respect,” he said.
The core of his address focused on ongoing efforts to transform the Indian National Congress from within. Gandhi detailed a reform initiative underway in Gujarat aimed at decentralizing power within the party’s structure. He emphasized empowering local leaders by giving decision-making authority to district presidents and their committees. “We’re building a system where voices from the ground—including those of our overseas brothers and sisters—will be heard and respected. Constructive competition, accountability, and accessibility will shape the new Congress,” he affirmed.
In a stirring reflection on India’s diversity, Gandhi spoke against the growing tide of ideological centralization under the RSS-BJP regime. “India is not defined by one language, one religion, or one tradition. Its soul is pluralistic, where a Punjabi, a Malayali, and a Gujarati can sit together in harmony. This is India, which is under attack today.” He warned that attempts to impose a singular ideological narrative threaten the very foundation of Indian democracy and unity.
He also drew attention to the challenges the opposition faces in today’s India, including the capture of mainstream and social media, which limits public access to alternative viewpoints. Despite these roadblocks, Gandhi pointed to the recent Lok Sabha elections, where the BJP faced unexpected resistance, as a sign that the tide is turning. “This is a fight between two ideologies—one that believes India belongs to everyone and another that seeks to concentrate power and wealth among a select few. We’ve faced harder battles before, and we will prevail.”
Following his keynote, Gandhi opened the floor to an unscripted Q&A session, responding to critical questions from the audience. When asked about voting irregularities in Maharashtra, he raised serious concerns about the integrity of India’s electoral system. He cited that between 5:30 and 7:30 PM during the state election, over 650,000 votes were reportedly cast—a physical impossibility based on voter speed and capacity. Requests for official videography, as required by law, were denied and followed by changes to the law to prevent such requests in the future. “This indicates a compromised Election Commission,” he said. “The issues with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and voter trust are not just ours—even international voices like Tulsi Gabbard have called them hackable. We will continue to raise these issues despite resistance.”
A young student in the audience asked how the youth could play meaningful roles in politics despite barriers. Gandhi responded candidly, emphasizing that politics is not easy—it is often grueling and requires resilience. However, he encouraged passionate young minds to get involved through internships and party programs. “If you are patient and committed, we will gladly open the way for you. The future belongs to those who are willing to work for it.”
Another question addressed the growing ideological infiltration in India’s universities, particularly the appointment of RSS-aligned faculty. Gandhi agreed that the educational system is being misused as a tool for ideological indoctrination rather than academic excellence. “This is damaging our intellectual foundation, and when we return to power, we will look into these appointments seriously.”
In his closing remarks, Gandhi acknowledged the short nature of this U.S. visit, having been invited primarily to speak at Brown University. However, he promised to return soon, with plans to visit cities such as in Illinois, California, Washington, and New Jersey. To enthusiastic applause, he also committed to bringing his sister, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, along on a future trip.
Following the great speech of Dr. Sam Pitroda ji, President Mohinder Singh Gilzian welcomed everyone and emphasized that “…This is not just a political battle – this is a moral struggle to protect the very soul of India, a struggle to defend our Constitution, preserve our democracy, and uphold the values our freedom fighters once dreamed of.” He added that we are witnessing a government that, even after losing its moral mandate, continues to operate with authoritarian arrogance.
George Abraham, the vice-chair of the Indian Overseas Congress, in his speech, encouraged the Boston Diaspora to be a more visible advocate on behalf of democracy, freedom, and equal justice. ” Indians are the largest group of economic refugees anywhere in the world where we would like to have our culture respected and religious freedom protected; however, if our motherland is failing to defend those values towards its minority citizens, what message are we sending abroad?” he further implored.
Secretary-General Harbachan Singh thanked Sri Rahul Gandhi ji, Dr. Sam Pitroda ji, all the Boston group and all other supporters, Working Presidents Pradeep Samala of North East Zone, Devinderpal Bhullar of West Coast Zone, Gurdev Singh Hayer of South West Zone, Vice President John Joseph, Vice President Baldev Randhawa, Treasurer Dr. Joshua Jayasingh, and other senior members such as Chapter Presidents and General Secretaries of the IOC.USA by recognizing each one by name, and expressed gratitude to the overall jam-packed massive audience for their enthusiastic rendering of the event a very successful one.
The evening concluded with a renewed sense of solidarity among attendees, many of whom had traveled great distances to engage with a leader they see as a torchbearer of truth, democracy, and compassion. As Gandhi ji reminded the audience, “In the marketplace of hatred, we must open a shop of love.” His message was clear—India’s soul is plural, resilient, and worth fighting for.
(Based on a press release issued by Harbachan Singh,, General Secretary, IOCUSA)
The Indian Panorama loves its readers and values their views. It has always been our effort to get the readers to express their views on various subjects and issues. This way, The Indian Panorama gets enriched even as readers other than those who commented get the benefit of the perspectives of those who contributed.
For the Independence Day special edition, we requested readers to write on India of their dreams. We received an enthusiastic response. We thank the readers who have contributed. Here is what they said.
Anu Jain Realtor, Long Island, NY
India is a great nation with loving people, and it is a multi-cultural, multi-lingual, and a multi-religious society. I dream of an India that is free from corruption at all levels. It would be a place where the betterment of the country and its people would be the sole agenda of the government. In India, corruption has been at the high side of the Indian politics for years and it has been filled with many greedy politicians whose interest is above the nation’s people; The rate of corruption is growing day by day and the common man suffers in the hands of politicians who are only interested in fulfilling their own selfish motives. Once corruption is out of the system many things will fall automatically in place such as the usage of the public fund. The public fund shall be utilized in improving India’s infrastructure, education, medical care, agriculture, military, and other sectors. It will also be used to make the atmosphere cleaner and healthier for the citizens of India. My dream India should have no discrimination on castes or religion, we are all Indian. We are not divided into Jain, Sikh, Hindu, Christian, Muslim, or any other religions. Different ethnic groups should be able to live in perfect harmony with each other. I want to see equality in education and employment, a nicely funded education system where the poor and the rich are able to acquire the same opportunity in order to gain the best education.
Arish K Sahani, New York Life Agent, Queens, NY
Being born in India, I feel proud to say that I was born in a great civilization.
India is one of the few places in the world where different family members are living with your one family and because of that, I feel proud to say that before I attended school and learned from my neighborhood uncles and aunts about the rights and wrongs in life. I was made to realize that – I am a Human and I need to learn HOW TO LIVE LIKE A HUMAN. It is only the humans of this world that need to know and learn how to live like a human. Animals don’t have to learn or be educated in a school system to learn the ways of life like we do. No one understands the importance of DNA, place of birth, and the culture you are born in unless you grow up and see the differences in each area.
The importance of good and honest leadership is recognized when you see the working of two different leaders from two different parties. When living in a democracy, if you have not realized and used the power to VOTE in your life, you are not fit to live in a democracy.
In today’s world, everyone is running towards money. But no one ever thinks that you come empty handed into this world and you leave empty handed from this world.
Sanatana Dharma teaches life principles. You carry and take with you the load of all your Karmas, and you are reborn again to carry on your desires and wishes.
All Indians who love India should be proud of the present leadership who has made India a world of focus.
It is a surprise for many that one billion Hindus have no Hindu nation as of yet. The world is watching and wondering if India will survive and if the locals of India are free to convert to any enemy culture and the right to destroy India by using political games.
I have been living in the United States for the past 50 years but I wish for myself to be born as a Hindu again in India.
I feel sad when our media and our education system have no programs to teach our young how to live like a human and how to develop the will to fight evil and to learn the non-truth. Millions living with the non-truth have no will to gain freedom from the corrupt systems of the unfortunate education system that we have today.
Arish Sahani, Born Hindu Grav Se Kaho Main Hindu Hoon.
Gobind Bathija, C.E.O/ President GBN Enterprises, Group of Companies, Long Island, NY
India’s society is divided by Caste, Religion, Region and Gender, however, are unified in Celebration of its’ Independence. The Nation has seen substantial progress in many areas including rise in income levels, global growth, and advancement in literacy and life expectancies. The per capita income increased in real terms despite a significant increase in the population of the country.
Sophisticated and modern technology has led to reduced prevalence of diseases leading to longevity. The increase in the gross enrollment ratios in school and rise in the number of recognized educational institutes in the country provided for the advancement of literacy levels. India has emerged as the top exporter of IT services and their IT sills are renowned all over the world. These, as well as significant infrastructure development, booming Agriculture and tremendous advancement in manufacturing, construction, electricity and gas and water supply sectors have positioned India as a Global leader.
India of the future – A Global Superpower with a primary focus on protecting their citizens through continued infrastructure spending in conjunction with:
controlling pollution levels,
public health care to reduce maternal and childhood deaths,
public safety, utility and water supply
reducing economic inequality,
housing.
No amount of economic growth with outweigh the safety and health of its people.
Harbachan Singh, Secretary General, Indian Overseas Congress, USA. Queens, NY
Significance of Independence Day
We celebrate Independence Day for several reasons. Firstly, to rejoice the Independence from a colonial power who had all this while been siphoning away all the treasures and wealth away from our country and always gave us a raw deal in our lives. They made easy money and enriched themselves, enjoyed luxurious lives and kept us subdued as servants. Independence Day is also to remind us that we must make sure that our own people will not do the same and keep us downtrodden. That they will not be corrupt, will not enrich their own, will not keep us jobless, will not destroy our environment, our children, our seniors and our health and education systems, will not practice rotten demonetization schemes, will not leave black money overseas, will not do Rafael type deals and make tons of corrupt money, will not punish our farmers who demonstrate peacefully against tyranny, who fail to keep campaign promises, who fail to protect us adequately from Corona and Delta Virus, who practice religious divide and exploit devious IT manipulations to win elections etc. and in the end make us more unhappy and desperate than we were under the colonial rulers. Independence is to enjoy a better quality of life, of love and co-exist with mutual respect, built with our sweat. Let us not shortchange ourselves. Everyone, regardless of class or creed must get a fair share of a country’s prosperity. We can lose our freedom by making a wrong choice at the ballot box.
Harish Thakkar, President, AIA New York Chapter, Queens, NY
India enjoys a rich cultural heritage. People belonging to various castes, creeds, and religions live peacefully in this country. I dream of India that progresses at an even greater pace and joins the list of the developed countries in no time. I want the government to provide equal employment opportunities for all so that the youth get deserving jobs and contribute towards the growth of the nation. I want the country to become technologically advanced and see growth in all the sectors.
Indu Jaiswal RDN Chair IAF, Long Island, NY
INDIA AT 75
On behalf of Board of trustees, members of Indian American forum and Indian American Community we want to wish everyone Happy Independence Day on August 15. As we celebrate 75th year of independence of the country, we salute the freedom fighters and their sacrifices made. We pay tribute to the martyrs of the country and continue to develop India of their dreams. As we are all still facing the challenges during the pandemic years,India and the whole world is working towards prevention and treatments of the invisible COVID -19 virus. India faces the biggest challenge for providing affordable and quality medical facilities and hospitals for its people. Our children are still suffering from Malnutrition and poverty. We also need to continue to empower and strengthen women in the field of business, politics and other areas. We need to continue to introduce schools and colleges providing quality education in India. We also see that use of Ayurveda, Yoga, and holistic treatments originating from India are benefiting people all over the world. The Green revolution in India is also leading towards high yielding varieties of rice and wheat to increase food production in order to alleviate hunger and poverty.Mahatma Gandhi said that our greatest ability is not to change the world but to change ourselves. Pearce is the most powerful weapon of mankind.
Happy Independence Day. JAI HIND!and VANDE MATARAM!
Dr. Renee Mehrra, President Reenbow Media, Queens, NY
As a proud Indian American who for several years has co emceed India Day Parade in NYC, I salute our freedom fighters and our unsung heroes whose dedication, courage, and sacrifices for their motherland will never be forgotten. Despite these unprecedented and challenging times, our passion to rejoice, celebrate, and revisit India’s vibrant history, rich cultural heritage and eternal values remain undiminished. Moving forward from India’s 75th year of independence, I envision My India as a country that leads the world in unity in diversity, where the next generation is an ambassador of peace, harmony, and goodwill, where more and more youth script history in the Olympics like our young hero Neeraj Chopra. where the girl child is respected and nurtured, and there is social equity and inclusion in every sphere.
Tirlok Malik, Filmmaker Emmy Nominated, Restaurateur, Happy Life Yoga Speaker, New York City, NY
An NRI’s view on India’s 75th Independence Day celebrations
My name is Tirlok Malik. I am an Emmy nominated filmmaker, an Ayurveda Restaurateur, and a Happy Life Yoga speaker. I consider myself a world citizen, blessed to be born in India and now living in America. Many major American corporations including Microsoft, Google, IBM, FedEx, Master card, and Vimeo have Indian American CEOs. And many Indian Americans have found major success in diverse fields such as medicine, hospitality industry, real estate, IT as well as other areas. Indian Americans living all over America are celebrating the 75th Independence Day of India with parades, floats, band, music, dancers, and having Bollywood actors as grand marshals, local politiciansand celebrity sponsors as chief guests, etc. in many cities across America. There is a great sense of pride in it. And it’s also fun to attend these parades, meet many people, watch actors dance to the music, listen to patriotic speeches about how great India is. The food stalls are always great at these events. When I look around at attendees, I mostly see Indian Americans of all ages, including young people born in America, clapping and cheering. The whole atmosphere makes me remember how much I miss India, love India, it is a part of my DNA till I die and even after that as I believe in reincarnation and a part of me will always want to be born in India.
Now, I also know most people who are attending will not go to live in India permanently. It makes me question and at the same time I know the answer. I have made all my films about the migration conflicts and its effects on human feelings: be it ‘Lonely in America,’ ‘Love Lust and Marriage’, ‘Khushiyaan’ and ‘On Golden Years or my new short film ‘To New India with Love’. I remember when I was studying in the 5th grade in a school in Delhi, I was told that once upon a time India used to be a Golden Bird and people from all over the world came there for education, trade, cultural exchange, etc. As a student being raised without much worldly things, I desired more and also saw most students’ fathers working very hard to make a living. I used to secretly hope and wish for India to become the Golden Bird again so that every Indian living in India could have worldly comforts. But as I grew older the reality was very different. I still hope for India to become the Golden Bird again. After finishing college my destiny brought me to America where I have been fortunate enough to realize my American Dream. But, during my emotional moments I have always missed India and hoped for India to have half of the life’s comforts which we have in US.
When I visited my folks back in India for the first time, I realized that the country could be the Golden Bird again, but it can only be done only by Indians living in India. Yes, NRIs can also help towards this in many ways but ultimately the onus lies with the resident Indians. Every time I visit India, I see it’s getting better but it can do more. I still have that desire to see India become the Golden Bird in my lifetime. It is possible when all citizens of India are truly free from self-created emotional conflicts, greed, laziness, discrimination, intolerance, corruption, lack of trust and be independent and focused towards having true independence.
It is my request to India to celebrate the 75th Independence Day not only as a freedom from the British but as freedom from the negative attitude and thinking. Let’s make India again the Golden Bird for the citizens of India, a Guru for the rest of the world. This is my salute to the 75th Independence Day of my beloved India. No matter where I live, India will always be part of me. I love you, India.
Urmilesh Arya MD FACP National President, AIA Long Island, NY
Future of India
This is the 75th Independence Day of India. This is the time to revise, what we have achieved and what we have to achieve. India is recovering from the Covid Crisis and moving to achieve its goals to make the country, strong, peaceful and prosperous. India is progressing in the leadership of a very strong and patriotic leader Prime Minister NarendraModi who wanted “Sabka Sath and Sabka Vikas.”
He said on this 75th celebration of independence the country will reflect “pride of Sanatan India and the glow of modern India “. He titled it Azadi Ka Amrut Mahotsav.”
The dream of future India is the developed India. An India free of poverty and illiteracy, where poor are empowered, the bridge between the poor and rich is within acceptable limits. The underprivileged youth succeed. An India which realizes its full potential in every domain and the educated souls understand the importance of giving back what they have taken from the society. People of India should be mobilized towards boundless energy, spirit and strength so that youth of India can carry out activities aimed at the betterment of life. India has won 5 medals this year Olympics should win many more in future. It will be a country where women are respected and people from all religions co-exists and where every citizen is proud to be an Indian.
NEW YORK (TIP): GOPIO International, the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (www.gopio.net), may soon realize its long-cherished dream of establishing its World Headquarters in the US. This will enable the organization to coordinate its activities and interact with the Indian Diaspora in an ideal manner. Talks are ongoing with the CEO and Chairman of the Redberri Corporation Dr. Deepak K. Vyas in this regard. If things work out according to the plan GOPIO hopes to inaugurate the headquarters coinciding with the 75th Indian Independence Day celebrations on August 15, 2021. United States Vice President Kamala Harris is being invited to inaugurate the opening ceremony. It is also expected that a life size statute of Mahatma Gandhi will be unveiled at this Convention center. State and local high dignitaries will be invited and are also expected to attend.
GOPIO officials discussed on June 5, 2021 at Sandwich, Illinois with Dr. Deepak K. Vyas by phone (due to his absence on account of an unforeseen personnel emergency) to explore the viability of establishing the GOPIO World Headquarters in Sandwich, Illinois at the Convention Center of the Redberri Corporation. Dr. Deepak Vyas, who was the Special Guest of GOPIO at Varanasi Governing General Body meeting in India on January 20, 2019, had graciously offered to accommodate GOPIO’s International Headquarters at his Convention Center edifice in Sandwich, USA.
GOPIO President Sunny Kulathakal, International Coordinator for N.A. Harbachan Singh, Treasurer Sohan Joshi and President of Chicago Chapter Gladson Varghese representing GOPIO, visited the premises and had a preliminary discussion with Dr. Deepak Vyas. The broad perimeters of a cooperation agreement were discussed and Mr. Sunny Kulathakal decided to take back the offer to the GOPIO Executive Council for consideration. He expressed his profound gratitude to Dr. Deepak Vyas for the offer.
Mr. Sunny Kulathakal stated that, “GOPIO International advocates for the people’s rights, fights on their behalf and assists the Indian Diaspora around the globe on issues such as, immigration and visa, PIO card matters, social services for the Diaspora, inheritance and legacy issues and to facilitate the often-stranded Diaspora travelers to their home country, and scores of other issues related to family and property matters.”
“Considering that GOPIO is a charitable organization, this offer was considered as a most valuable concession to GOPIO where it can establish an appropriate office and direct its activities and efficiently service all its Regional offices and Country Chapters in a most effective way”, said Harbachan Singh. GOPIO has now matured and grown worldwide, and it was time that it changed its shell. GOPIO was established in USA in 1989 and has since expanded and spanned across the world where it has over 30 Chapters and several hundreds of Life members doing a phenomenal job. The overseas Indians are beginning to rely on GOPIO to help solve their problems.
GOPIO has conducted several programs in cooperation with the Consulate General of India in different parts of the world. This collaboration is leading to the ability to forge more partnerships. GOPIO International’s collaboration with the Redberri Corporation will further enhance interaction between Mother India and the Indian population at a higher level both in terms of qualitative and quantitative endeavors, and in a professional way on a worldwide basis.
More details regarding this announcement will be available shortly at http://www.gopio.net/ or contact: GOPIO International president Sunny Kulathakal at 314-926-6103.
NEW YORK (TIP): The Indian Overseas Congress, USA has written to the Chairmen of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations and House Committee on Foreign Affairs and the members of the members of the India Caucus to investigate Facebook’s meddling in the Indian electoral politics in favor of BJP, a Hindu nationalist party currently in power. The letter expresses serious concern over Facebook’s election-year interference, content bias, and the selective suppression of Indian citizens’ free expression.
The letter was triggered by a report in the Wallstreet Journal that detailed how Ankhi Das, a top executive in charge of the content, instructed her colleagues and said, “punishing violations by politicians from @narendramodi party would damage the company’s business prospects in the country”.
“India is the largest market for FACEBOOK and FACEBOOK owned WhatsApp in terms of the number of users, and therefore these companies have a huge responsibility in managing the content without religious bias and bigotry. However, FACEBOOK and WhatsApp have chosen the side of those that incite violence and encourage instability that has led to the destruction of lives and property” the letter further added.
The letter went on to say that “We recognize that India is an important partner in the region for the United States strategically and economically. But the actions of FACEBOOK and WhatsApp are undermining the democratic institutions and threatening the religious minorities. Under the Modi Administration, freedom of expression is being suppressed, media is being muzzled, judicial independence is being destroyed, and religious freedom is under attack, and the behavior of FACEBOOK is a prime example of influential businesses becoming enablers of such actions. This is a matter of great concern to the Indian Diaspora in the United States”.
The organization is actively seeking a congressional investigation into the abuses by Facebook and has formally requested that ” we respectfully request you to hold Congressional hearings on FACEBOOK’s efforts which undermine the values of liberal democracies in countries like India, drastically altering its political discourse like it has in the US and elsewhere.”
Ref:
“Facebook’s Hate-Speech Rules Collide with Indian Politics”, Wall Street Journal. https://www.wsj.com/articles/facebook-hate-speech-india-politics-muslim-hindu-modi-zuckerberg-11597423346
“Facebook Executive Supported India’s Modi, Disparaged Opposition in Internal Messages”, Wall Street Journal.https://www.wsj.com/articles/facebook-executive-supported-indias-modi-disparaged-opposition-in-internal-messages-11598809348
“Who Were The Key Players Responsible for Facebook’s Support to Modi and the BJP?”, Newsclick. https://www.newsclick.in/part-3-who-were-key-players-responsible-facebooks-support-modi-and-bjp
“Facebook Ties to India’s BJP Under Scrutiny Over Hate Speech”, Time. https://time.com/5883993/india-facebook-hate-speech-bjp/
“Three Out of Facebook’s Seven Fact Checking Partners Have Shared Misinformation”, Alt News. https://www.altnews.in/3-out-of-facebooks-7-fact-checking-partners-have-shared-misinformation-post-pulwama/
MICHIGAN (TIP): In its continuing efforts to expand IOC, USA offices throughout USA, IOC, USA opened a New Chapter in Michigan on Sat. June 22, 2019 and installed Mr. Rajwinder Singh Grewal as the Chapter President. The installation ceremony took place in the Grand Plaza Hotel, Grand Rapids, where over two hundred member participants gathered to witness the installation ceremony of the President. Mr. Mohinder Singh Gilzian, President of IOC, USA in New York came down to Michigan to install the Chapter president.
Mr. George Abraham, Vice Chairman and Mr. Harbachan Singh, Secretary-General of IOC, USA , who were unable to attend, welcomed Mr. Gerewal and sent their congratulations and best wishes to Mr. Raj winder Singh Grewal and his team and looked forward for an active participation and interaction with the newly created Michigan Chapter going forward.
Mr. Mohinder Singh Gilzian also conveyed the greetings and blessings of Mr. Sam Pitroda, Chairman of the Indian Overseas Congress Department of All India Congress Committee in New Delhi to Mr. Rajwinder Singh Grewal and stated that although Mr. Pitroda had earlier indicated his intention to attend the function but was, however, now precluded from doing so due to a last minute schedule change.
Many of the Congress party officials, distinguished leaders, members, families and friends who not only came from the neighboring cities and states to grace the occasion, but also spoke at the function and praised the newly constituted team. There was considerable enthusiasm noted from the new team and it was inevitable that the Chapter will be up to an active start.
In expressing great satisfaction and confidence in these appointments, Mr. Mohinder Singh Gilzian emphasized the need to work diligently, the NRIs to work on the phones with their families and friends to explain why it was necessary at this time to re strategize wisely and work even harder. The failings, especially the lynchings now prevailing in India was a cause of great concern to everyone and shortcomings of the Modi government were well known.
Over a dozen prominent speakers took turn to pay tribute and compliment Mr. Grewal and all the new appointees. Mr. Grewal thanked Mr. Mohinder Singh Gilzian and everyone who had attended the ceremony and made a firm commitment to work hard and support the Party with all his might and capabilities. Mr. Gerewal said that even though the Congress Party had not succeeded this time, he was highly optimistic that things will be totally different the next time around.
NEW YORK (TIP): At the prestigious Douglaston Manor in Little Neck Queens,at the annual Queens Civic CongressLegislative Receptionheld on Sunday December 4, studded with politicians and community leaders in the likes of US Congresswomen Grace Meng, Queens Borough President Melinda Katz, NY Comptroller Scott M. Stringer, NY City Public Advocate Letitia James and scores of NY State Senators, NYS Assembly members and NYC Council members, the Governor’s representative in presenting the Governor’s award to Mr. Harbachan Singh said that his outstanding service and contribution to the society will never be forgotten by the people in Queens and paid a glowing tribute to Mr. Singh who was stepping down from his position as President of the strong Queens Civic Congress this month.
The Queens Civic Congress is a borough wide umbrella organization establishedin 1989 to represent over 100 civic and coop associations to improve the quality of life and to preserve and protect the residential areas of Queens and seek inter alia adequate, affordable and safe accessibility to essential services within and intra boroughs particularly for the residents of Queens. Mr. Singh thanked all the elected officials who either led or stood by the Congress and sat on the same side of the issues together. Recalling some examples, he enumerated on their demonstrations at the 59th St. Bridge against imposition of tolls on the East River Bridges, their holding of press briefings or demonstrations in various parts of Queens and in front of the City Hall, arguing with the Mayor’s office over issues relating to homeless shelters or the introduction of bus lanes or bicycle lanes without proper study, pointing out the negative aspects of the Mayor’s Affordable Housing project, expressing discontent of the Board of Standards and Appeals for not giving due regard to the voice or opinions of community input, crying out for need of routes or extension of lines into vast areas of Queens lacking public transport service or preparing to object to the subway fare hikes planned for early 2017 particularly in light of the observation of the State Comptroller Thomas de Napoli that fares rose six times faster than the average salaries in New York over the past decade.
Harbachan Singh (center, holding plaque in left hand) with Democratic leaders
Commenting on the current fear of hard times and uncertainty apparently looming in the political arena, Mr. Singhurgedeveryone to work even harder and closer together and be more attentive, vocal and vigilant to community needs and stand up to protect the neighborhoods, jobs, economy, environment and above all, the quality of life.He also received awardsfrom others.
NEW YORK CITY (TIP): Sushil Kumar Shinde, a former Chief Minister of Maharashtra and a former Minister of Home Affairs of India formally inaugurated the Maharashtra Chapter of INOC, USA on Aug. 16, 2016, at an animated gathering at a prestigious Manhattan Restaurant and inaugurated Devendra Vora as its new President. Vora hails from Maharashtra and has been an active supporter of the Congress Party and its ideology for a long time.
In his speech, Shinde urged the Congress supporters not to lose heart but to continue to work hard to earn people’s trust again. ‘Congress was in similar predicaments before but always came back when people realized that Congress party is their best option to keep political tranquility at home while achieving sustained growth.’ He recollected efforts as Home Minister in dealing with various domestic upheavals and expressed doubts that the current Government is pursuing proper strategies that could bring peace and harmony at home. He also agreed with current assessment within the party that it hadn’t done a great job of communicating its achievements to the public at large and hoping to do a better job in the future.
After welcoming the Chief Guest and Sangat Singh Gilzian, MLA from TANDA URMUR District of Punjab, Harbachan Singh, Secretary-General of INOC, USA, thanked both dignitaries and the distinguished guests for gracing the event. He dwelt in some detail upon some of the landmark achievements of the Congress party and how it had transformed India as one of the leading countries of the world. “India is more connected today than it has ever been – networks of railways, roads, airlines, information, communication, people and media where new ideas emerge, develop and take flight very rapidly,” he said. He opined that youth which forms a great chunk of India’s population would undoubtedly unleash their talent and energy through modern technology and play a greater role in forming future governments. He reminded that the Indian people have and will continue to throw out governments that fail them and which does not fulfill campaign promises.
Mohinder Singh Gilzian, President of INOC, IUSA facilitated the new Chapter officers and members and was happy to see them join the dozen other Chapters already established since a long time.
George Abraham, Chairman, felicitated the Chief Guest and lauded his brilliant career in politics from his humble beginnings to becoming the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Governor of Andhra Pradesh and Home Minister of India. He congratulated the newly appointed President of Maharashtra Chapter Vora and wished him and Ms. Malini Shah (Chairperson) well in their development of the chapter.
Sangat Singh Gilzian, was very appreciative of the work of INOC, USA and reassured everyone that the Congress party alone, with its rich long experience and established institutions, can provide maximum benefits to the people and develop the country not only to keep pace with the advanced countries of the world but also to compete with them effectively. He was proud that some of the best talents in the world in every sphere of human activity, science, and technology, were trained in India. He said that the foundation laid by the Congress Party is very strong, and it had already embarked on eradicating irrational red-tape and outdated laws which were suffocating India of the speed of progress it desired so critically.
The placing of the Shawl on Devendra Vora, amidst a big applause, by Shinde, highlighted the event.
Devendra Vora thanked, Shinde, SangatSingh and INOC, USA for the confidence and the responsibility entrusted to him. He vouched that he would take his responsibilities seriously and would do his best to live up to their expectations.
Zach Thomas (Vice-Chairman), Harry Singh (Joint Secretary), Subash Kapadia, Mohammed Islam, Arvind Vora, Ms. Priscilla Pinto, Ms. Megha Mehta, Ms. Hema Virani, Rajesh Joshi, Divesh Tripathi, Kaushik Dave and Peter Shah were amongst the many prominent persons who attended.
MELVILLE, NY (TIP): The Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee President and former Chief Minister of Punjab, Capt. Amarinder Singh, addressing a huge rally in New York on Saturday May 7, 2016 said “Punjab is undergoing difficult times at the present, and these difficulties can only be resolved and Punjab’s progress put back on track when Congress government comes back to power.”
Capt. Amarinder Singh was on his last leg of his journey in the United States and was addressing a large crowd at the Hilton Hotel in Melville, New York organized under the aegis of Punjabi NRIs of US. The Indian National Overseas Congress, USA headed by President Mohinder Singh Gilzian supported this successful event.
Capt. Amarinder Sigh said that at present, the conditions in Punjab are very bad. The Sikh leaders themselves are causing harm. Some of them will go to any extent for the sake of titles. Here, discussing with many individuals directly amongst the 2000-crowd, he listened to personal issues and general complaints. He declared that the properties of NRI Punjabis that have been illegally occupied or confiscated will be freed and given back to the rightful owners. Once their government is established, new rules and procedures will be put in place to resolve NRI problems. He said he was fully familiar with the problems of the NRIs and has great sympathies for them.
In addition, talking about Punjab, he said, inattention to agriculture, joblessness and drug addiction by youth were among the major problems which required careful and urgent social and governmental intervention. He stated that in Punjab, important departments including the Education were failing to deliver even minimum services and his party apparatus was already preparing to uplift andimprove them to a higher standard of efficiency. He said Punjab was in a dire need for a creative and far-sighted Government and the Congress will be able to deliver that.
He warned Punjabis about Aam Aadmi Party and said that Delhi administration has gone down under AAP and if they adapt to their failed policies and practices in Punjab, it will collapse. In the midst of applause, ovations and cries of “Captain Amarinder Singh Zindabad, and Captain Le aao, Punjab Bachao!!” From the audience, he warned that we have to be cautious of 3 things (Whites) in which White liquor, White Fly and White Topi were included. He lamented that Badal family had ruined Punjab with corruption. Thebackbone of Punjab, the farmer, is in dire shape as their situation is deteriorating and farmers are being forced to commit suicide in alarming numbers.
He also heard complaints from members of the audience and offered solutions that his new government will offer if it takes office. His answers which were in simple and straight forward language were considered as very satisfactory by all to the concerns they had expressed and the audience left fully content. Hon. Sangat Singh Gilzian, MLA from Tanda who, among others, accompanied Capt. Amarinder Singh from Punjab also gave a brief narrative of the deplorable conditions in Punjab and said that Punjab now needed a great leader like Capt. Amarinder Singh to save it from drowning. Hon. Sukh Sarkaria, MLA, Hon. Kewal Dhillon, MLA and Dr. Surinder Malhotra also spoke on the occasion.
In conclusion, the President of the Indian National Overseas Congress, USA, Mr. Mohinder Singh Gilzian thanked the audience for coming and participating in the discussions and said that this event brought historic crowd together in New York. He was happy that the audience were completely satisfied with the answers that they had received from Capt. Amarinder Singh which had clarified all misunderstandings of people relative to all opposition parties including AAP. In this connection, Gurmit Singh Gill also spoke and added that he would take thousands of Punjabi NRIs from USA to Punjab for the 2017 elections. Amongst those who played an active role in organizing the event and making it a grand success included Karamjit Singh Dhaliwal, President Malwa Brothers Association and Vice-President of INOC, USA, Tejinder Gill and Jasvir Singh Nawanshahr.
George Abraham, Chairman, Mohinder Singh Gilzian, President, and Harbachan Singh, Secretary-General, together with several senior officers of INOC, USA met with Capt. Amarinder Singh before the meeting where they discussed some of the important issues and strategies pertaining to the work of the INOC, USA and its resolve to assist in the furtherance of the goal of Capt. Amarinder Singh in his campaign processes. It was agreed that the parties will remain in touch and act in concert. Captain Amarinder Singh expressed deep appreciation for the hard work the group was doing especially in bringing the community together and encouraged Mohinder Singh Gilzian to continue with his good work. (Press Release)
NEW YORK (TIP): Harbachan Singh was sworn in for his second term as president of Queens Civic Congress (QCC) at the annual QCC Legislative Reception on December 6, 2015 at the Douglaston Club in Queens. It was another successful QCC event which was well attended by its many organization members and several prominent legislators from federal, state and city levels. Highlighting the event was the swearing in of the newly elected QCC team by US Senator Charles Schumer who commended QCC for its representation and advocacy.
Harbachan Singh, born in Malaysia, is a Barrister-at-Law from U.K He is a former Chairman of the Headquarters Committee on Contracts of the United Nations. Currently, he is Secretary-General of the Indian National Overseas Congress, USA. and President of the Advisory Board of the Holocaust Center at the Queens Borough Community College. He is a past president of the Saul Weprin Democratic Club, Vice President of the Community Advisory Board of the Queens Hospital Center and a delegate of the Queens Borough President’s’ General Assembly. Singh is also a life member of Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO.
Ashook Ramsaran, formerly of Guyana, was sworn in as the newest vice president of QCC. Ramsaran emigrated from Guyana in 1968 and currently president of Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO International). He is a board member of the Fresh Meadows Civic Association and Secretary of New York Presbyterian/Queens Hospital Community Advisory Council, among several other notable positions in prominent organizations and institutions.
New York State Senator Tony Avella (third from left, front row) with members of the newly sworn in QCC team.
The growing impact of the activities of Queens Civic Congress has certainly drawn attention recently as evidenced from the significant number officials attending the event. Legislators who participated in the Legislative Reception included: U.S. Congresswoman Grace Meng; Queens Borough President Ms. Melinda Katz; New York City Comptroller Scott Stringer; Public Advocate Letitia James; State Senators Tony Avella and Toby Ann Stavisky; State Assemblymen David Weprin and Edward Braunstein; State Assemblywoman Nily Rozic; NYC Council Members Rory Lancman, Alicia Hyndman, Karen Koslowitz and Barry Grodenchik; NYC Design & Construction Commissioner Dr. Feniosky Peña-Mora representing Mayor Bill di Blasio; and others.
QCC second term president Mr. Harbachan Singh spoke after the swearing in ceremony of the many challenges Queens residents were facing on issues such as those relating to public transport system, airplane noise at vicinities of Queens two major airports, congestion pricing, shelters for the homeless, zoning for quality and affordability housing, use of parks and the parkland, business development districts and Long Island Rail Road line activation proposals. Singh reasoned with the legislators that “while we invariably find ourselves on the same side of the table at City Council or State Assembly hearings, we both serve the common interests of the residents and the county; we also appreciate your listening ears to our opposing positions when necessary”. Singh recognized their overall collaboration, support and cooperation.”
Queens Civic Congress, formed in 1997, is a registered New York State non-profit organization representing more than 100 civic and other community organizations throughout the Borough of Queens in New York City, is committed to the protection and advancement of the “Quality of Life”, to provide a forum for the civic associations and neighborhood organizations, to develop and present common policies and positions, and to furnish effective leadership and advocacy for the advancement of the welfare and interests of Queens’ neighborhoods.
NEWYORK (TIP): At a standing room crowd only gathering at the LibertyPalace in Richmond Hill, New York, hundreds of Congress loyalists cheered and distributed sweets to congratulate Captain Amarinder Singh as the Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee Chief on his appointment by the AICC President, Smt. Sonia Gandhi.
In a resolution introduced on the floor, the meeting expressed its gratitude to Sonia ji for this bold decision at a critical time for the party in the state and congratulated Captain Amarinder Singh and wished him all the success in the future. Mr. Mohinder Singh Gilzian, President of INOC, USA, in his speech, touched upon the state of affairs in Punjab with the mismanagement and corruption under the Badal government combined with the divisive politics of its ally BJP that is harming the interest of the common people.
He cited the media reports saying that ‘Punjab continues to be on edge, and the outlook remains grim. The increasing grip of the Badal family over issues concerning Sikhs, both political and religious, coupled with incidents of sacrilege of the holy book, the Guru Granth Sahib, and multiple sets of problems faced by farmers, are reinforcing the impression of a State administration at a loss for initiatives to regain equilibrium. The State is already in the grip of drug abuse, falling agricultural output and farm debts. It has faced a farmers’ agitation for over two months now. The resentment in the cotton and rice belt reached such proportions that officials were scared to venture into the villages. In addition, dissidents are threatened to a point where the freedom of expression is at risk’.
The meeting also celebrated the Constitution of India that provided stability and prosperity to the nation and saluted its architects Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and B.R. Ambedkar. Meeting also expressed concerns about the growing intolerance in India and requested the Modi Government to uphold the constitution and respect the legacy of great leaders that paved the way for a democratic and secular nation. George Abraham, Chairman, in his speech, paid special tribute to Nehru for his great contribution in building strong institutions that have served the country well in the last six decades.
Mr. Harbachan Singh, Secretary-General in his speech alluded to the Bihar election results and congratulated the State for its victory and pointed out that the Indian voter has already begun to draw his/her conclusions of the recent 18-month
performance/experience with the Modi Government. ‘Captain Amarinder Singh’s appointment has rejuvenated the hopes and interests of Congress supporters and reinforced their determination to correct the mistakes of the past’ he further added.
Mr. T.J. Gill, President of Punjab Chapter exhorted the participants to be more active in supporting good governance in the State and promised to do his very best in conveying the NRI sentiment to the Captain and the new leadership in that regard.
Mr. Karamjit Dhaliwal, Vice-President Spoke about the need for the Congress cadre in Punjab to come together in unity as it will be facing the election in the near future.
Among those who addressed the audience included Bawa Rajender Singh Lally, Babu Joginder Singh Miani, Mr. Satish Sharma, Mr. Sarmukh Singh, Mr. Sarbjit Singh Advocate, Mr. Rajesh Allahdad, Mr. Jaswinder Singh Bittoo, Mr. Jagjit Singh, Manmohan Singh Miani and Mr. Gurmit Singh. Mr. Jasvir Singh Nawanshahr expressed vote of thanks.
NEW YORK (TIP): Community leaders from the Tri-state area came together to honor the memory of the former President A.P.J Abdul Kalam on Sunday, August 2. The condolence meeting was organized by George Abraham, Lal Motwani and B. Aravindakshan , the chair persons of the organizing committee that had received Dr. Kalam in New York in 2008.
Harbachan Singh, the General Secretary of the Indian National Overseas Congress opened the meeting paying glowing tribute to a man so great and highly educated and yet so humble and simple that his rich legacy which is second to none and bodes well with the culture and milieu of India will be long remembered . Singh believed that he uplifted the mood and desires of the Indians by inculcating dedication, honesty, mutual respect and perseverance in their daily lives. He felt immensely grateful and proud of his presidency.
George Abraham, the Chairman of INOC, USA spoke about his humility while recalling his experience by getting invited to ride with him in a car to the airport on his return trip. ‘He thanked me for organizing the community reception bringing 33 Indian organizations together and said he wouldn’t like to have it any other way and then added if there is unity of minds, you can solve anything’.
Lal Motwani spoke of his immense talent and how he related with young people and requested that we all do our best to keep his great legacy alive. Aravindakshan spoke about his days working with Dr. Kalam in ISRO and talked about his simplicity in everything including the way he dressed and the food he has consumed. ‘He was just one of us, an ordinary worker, though he was the program director’.
Dr. Surinder Malhotra, President of World Punjabi Organization spoke about his commitment to pluralism and how he stayed above the fray of mixing politics and religion. Dr. Jit Chandan, professor at the City University talked about how Dr. Kalam redefined leadership. ‘ To Dr. Kalam the leadership entails taking responsibility when there is a failure and sharing credit with others when success is attained’ Dr. Chandan added.
Mr. Juned Qazi, President of INOC, USA spoke about how Dr. Kalam made India stronger in the field of science and Technology and paid tribute to his many contributions in that arena.
Prof. Indrajit Saluja, Chief Editor of the Indian Panorama spoke about how Dr. Kalam epitomized the best in a human being and said he has set a high benchmark for all of us.
Satnam Singh Parhar, President of IALI (Indian Association of Long Island) reminded that Dr. Kalam is an example of how simplicity could win over the hearts and minds of the common man and said he was a noble soul and totally unpretentious.
R. Jayachandran, President of the Kerala Chapter spoke about his unique ability in motivating young people and encouraging them to dream for a brighter future. Vinod Kearke, legal advisor for the Kerala Chapter described Dr. Kalam as a teacher above everything while Prasad Kambhampaty, the Executive Committee member of INOC, USA recalled the days when he worked for the Bhabha Atomic Research Center listening to visiting Dr. Kalam who used to give motivational speeches that energized the young scientists.
Imran Mohammed of NRI-SAHI lauded the people’s president while Leela Maret, Vice-President of INOC, Kerala Chapter and the President of the Women’s Forum of FOKANA paid tribute Dr. Kalam as an extra-ordinary human being whose legacy will continue to motivate the youth of India in the years to come.
K.G. Janardhanan of Sree Narayana Association stated that Dr. Kalam shined like a Sun and he will be sorely missed while Father John Thomas, Diocesan Secretary of Orthodox Churches in North America paid tribute to Dr. Kalam as a noble soul who has set an example for everyone with his principled life. John Joseph, President of Tamil Chapter of INOC praised his life for using the Presidency of India as a bully pulpit to create an enormous impact on so many lives, especially the young ones.
The audience expressed heartfelt condolences and left with a great sense of pride and honor to have had him as the former President of India.
NEW YORK (TIP): ‘Kerala is the real model for inclusive development and governance that has applied the philosophy of Congress party of uplifting the poor and aiding the minorities and the backward sections of the society thereby achieving the highest rank as the most developed state in India based on the United Nations Human Development Index’ said K.C. Joseph, Minister for Non- Resident Keralites Affairs and Rural development. Joseph was addressing a meeting organized by the Kerala Chapter of Indian National Overseas Congress (I), at Charis Center, in Floral Park, New York. ‘For those who are asking what Congress has done in the last 60years ought to go back and revisit the pre-independent India’ he challenged.
‘Congress party had not only led the country to its independence, but also led the green revolution and the IT revolution that catapulted the nation to become the 5th largest economy in the world. People tend to have short memories and the debacle in the last election might have been due to a critical ‘message gap’ across the voting population, primarily the young ones, that was clearly exploited by the opposition’ he added. He also assured the gathering of giving prompt attention to the Pravasee issues and promised full cooperation from the Kerala Government in that regard.
George Abraham, the Chairman of INOC (I), presiding over the meeting lauded the minister for his 4 decades of selfless service to the people of Kerala and the non-resident Keralites in particular. ‘Mr. Joseph is truly a man of integrity and honor and someone who has an unblemished record in public life and someone we could all be truly proud of” Abraham added. President Juned Qazi thanked Kerala for being a stronghold for the Congress Party and thanked the minister for his efforts on behalf of the non-Keralites across the globe. He also congratulated the new team of leadership for the Kerala Chapter consisting of Thomas T. Oommen as the Chairman and R. Jayachandran as the President. Mr. Harbachan Singh, the General Secretary spoke of the activities of INOC (I), in US over the years and urged the Minister to strengthen the ties with the organization at the state level. He emphasized the formidable strength of the NRIs and how it could fuel the mutual benefit of the Indians in India and USA. Jaychandran in his address urged the Congress loyalists to stay focused in these difficult times for the party and promised to work hard to promote a truly democratic and pluralistic India while strengthening the bond between our two countries.
A number of guest speakers also spoke on the occasion that included Swami Guru Ratnam Thapasi of Santhigiri, Kottayam DCC President Tomy Kallani, K.A. Francis of Manorama, P.T. Chacko, the press secretary of the Chief Minister of Kerala and Advocate Bino George. INOC (I) National and State leaders also spoke passionately at the session that included Zach Thomas, Jose Charummood, U.A. Naseer, Jose Thekkedom, Leela Maret, Balachandra Panickar, Varghese Thekkekara, Jaison Alex and Guru Dilip ji, Jose Kanatt and many others. They thanked the Minister for the assurance that he would attempt to strengthen the bond of cooperation and understanding between Indians in India and USA. Thomas T. Oommen, the Chairman of Kerala chapter was the Emcee and Jose Charummood expressed the vote of thanks.
NEW YORK (TIP): A large gathering of INOC (I) workers celebrated, June 17, the appointment of Juned Qazi as the new President of INOC (I) USA. Introducing Juned Qazi, George Abraham, Chairman of INOC(I) said Qazi is a dedicated leader with charisma and youthful vigor who is capable of taking INOC (I) to the next level. He recollected the time he was with Qazi in India during the recent election cycle to secure a seat to run from Aligarh constituency on a Congress ticket.
” I have personally witnessed his ability to motivate and mobilize the cadre at the grass-roots level; if he is to employ the same amount of stamina and focus, INOC could be rebuilt very soon to face up to the challenges on hand”, Abraham added. General Secretary Harbachan Singh who was master of ceremonies for the event, said that Juned Qazi was a consensus builder and a very talented leader who has earned the trust of fellow members of the organization both in USA and India.
Mrs. George Abraham presenting a bouquet to Juned Qazi
He is a very amiable and dynamic leader, and we are confident that he will fully and very ably discharge his duties as President of INOC (I) and overwhelming support for him was the order of the day. He added, ” A sense of relief was felt all around the reception hall that the stagnant INOC(I) over the last one year was now once again geared up to function fullswing to respond to the aspirations of the people.” Mohinder Singh Gilzian, senior Vice- President lauded Qazi for his commitment to the values and principles of the Congress Party and wished him all the success. Juned Qazi thanked everyone for the great show of support and committed himself to work hard for the Indian Americans and motherland India, and to foster greater cooperation and friendship ties between the two.
” I have been a Congress worker and loyalist all my life and I mean to remain one and serve the organization in the best possible manner. Of course, I will need your support to restore strength and vibrancy to the organization”, said Juned. Photos/ Gunjesh Desai/ Masala Junction
He also vouched that he will go the extra mile to help the needy and will not hesitate to stand for what is right. Those who felicitated included Dr. Dayan Naik (President, Karnataka Chapter), Dr. Neil Mandava (Chairman, AP Chapter), John Joseph (President, Tamil Nadu ), T. J. Gill (President, Punjab), Zinda Singh (President, Delhi), Sonia Sodhi (President, MP Chapter), Chander Prakash Sukhval (V.P. Rajasthan Chapter), U.A. Naseer (Secretary, Kerala chapter), Sawaran Singh (President, Haryana Chapter) and Executive Committee members; Zach Thomas, Sabina Ali, Prasad Kambahpaty, Karamjit Dhaliwal. Others who felicitated included R. Jayachandran, Dr. Vaijinath Chakote, Jose George, Thomas T. Oommen, Dr. Uday Singh, Ram Gadula, Vidya Bhushan Sharma, Harkesh Thakur, Jose Jacob, Rev. Dr. Abraham and Rev. Wilson Jose, Mahesh Bhai and Rumpy Bindra. Earlier, at the beginning of the function, Mrs. George Abraham, the first lady of the INOC (I) presented, on behalf of the INOC (I) family a bouquet to Juned Qazi.
NEW YORK CITY (TIP): Community members and Consulate officials organized a farewell reception for Consul Perumal Venkatasamy, Head of Chancery at the Indian Consulate in New York, who was retiring after 37 years of service. Venkatasamy served in India and at a number of Indian diplomatic missions abroad. Consul General Dnyaneshwar Mulay praised Venkatasamy for his hard work and dedication in a speech that was also narration of how typical bureaucracy functions.
Consul General Mulay praised Mr. Venkatasamy for his being a willing and ready worker. He was always ready to do whatever work was given to him, said Mr. Mulay. Thomas T. Oommen, Chairman, Heritage Indian Association of North America, which organized the event highlighted Venkatasamy’s helping nature. “He was ready to help anyone who faced problems,” Oommen said.
They gathered to give an affectionate and warm farewell to a gentleman
” If he could not help immediately, he would give advice as to how to solve the problem. We need officials like him, who interact with people and never show arrogance or indifference to them.” Venkatasamy expressed his thanks to the Indian American Community for their affection for him. Those who spoke on the occasion included Professor Indrajit Saluja, George Abraham, Sudha Acharya, Juned Quazi, Appen Menon, Sharma, Shakir Ahmed, Jayachandran Ramakrishnan, Jose George, Korason Varghese, U A Naseer, V K Sabhapathi, R P Singh, Varghese Chunkathil, Wilson Jose, Lal Motwani, Harbachan Singh, Thomas Koshy, Dr. Parameswaran, Consul Dhirendra Singh, Sheela Sreekumar, Leela Maret, George Mathew, Dr. Itty Abraham and George Joseph.
NEW YORK, NY(TIP): The Embassy of India in the USA has awarded the new contract for providing Visa/OCI/PIO/Renunciation of Indian Citizenship Certificate application support services to the Cox & Kings Global Services Pvt. Ltd., to be operational from May 21st, 2014.
The current Service Provider, BLS International Limited, will be closing all its operations with regard to Visa/OCI/PIO/Renunciation of Indian Citizenship Certificate support services in the evening of 20th May, 2014 at all locations in USA. Applications in person viz. ‘walk-in application” will be accepted by BLS International Ltd till the afternoon of 16th May 2014.
Only Emergency Visa applications will be accepted by BLS till forenoon of 20th May 2014. Applications sent through mail upto 13th May 2014 and reaching the BLS International Ltd. on or before 15th May 2014 will be accepted. Thereafter, applicants, who propose to send their applications by mail, may send them, so as to reach offices of the Cox & Kings Global Services Pvt. Ltd. at jurisdictional locations on or after May 21st,2014. It may also be noted that Banker’s checks/ Money order accompanying these applications are drawn in favor of the new service provider Cox & Kings Global Services Pvt. Ltd with the revised service fee.
From the 21st of May, 2014 all Visa/OCI/PIO/Renunciation of Indian Citizenship Certificate application support services will be provided by the Cox & Kings Global Services Pvt. Ltd. Applicants, who have already submitted their applications to BLS International Ltd, may check online status of their applications from BLS International Ltd website till May 20th, 2014. The status of these Pending applications will be available on the website of Cox & Kings Global Services Pvt. Ltd. from 21st May 2014 and can be tracked from their website. The website details and locations of the CKGS offices would be announced shortly.
The Indian Panorama had from time to time reported the inefficient services provided and the corrupt practices indulged in by the BLS International. We have been demanding replacement of the agency. We strongly that public will continue to suffer at the hands of BLS until the outsourcing for passport services is also not withdrawn from BLS. The sooner it is done the better. Meanwhile, various organizations and individuals have welcomed the appointment of new service providers. Many said it was a good riddance from BLS who were thoroughly incompetent and were running a den of corruption.
In a statement issued to the press, INOC Chairman George Abraham said, “INOC applauds the selection of Cox & Kings Global Services Pvt. Ltd. INTERNATIONAL to replace the BLS Services International as the new service provider for the visa/OCI/PIO/Renunciation support services with effect from May 21st, 2014. “May I take this opportunity to thank the Ministry of External Affairs for their prompt action in this regard” said George Abraham, Chairman, Indian National Overseas Congress (I), USA.
“We are gratified that Government of India has responded to our recommendation on the removal of BLS, an agency which provided inefficient and deplorable services to the Indian Diaspora and to the American public in the past several months. The community indeed can breathe a sigh of relief while hoping for improved efficiency and faster turnaround time in the future” the statement continued.
“Last February, a team headed by George Abraham along with Mr. Mohinder Singh Gilzian, Vice-President, Mr. Harbachan Singh, General Secretary, Mr. Sawaran Singh, Executive Committee Member, Mr. Juned Qazi, President of Madhya Pradesh Chapter & EC member visited the External Affairs Ministry and submitted a memorandum and met and lobbied with MoS. Shri E. Ahamed and Mos. Mrs. Preneet Kaur for a change of the service provider. Our efforts were in support of the Ambassador D.M. Mulay, the Consul General in New York who had already recommended the termination of the contract with BLS.
“In our letter to Hon. Salman Khurshid. Union Minister for External Affairs said the following: “unfortunately, the atmosphere has deteriorated so badly that travelers often cannot travel on due dates of travel, due to documents being lost or misplaced and most of the time no timely response is received from them. Chronic delays are the order of the day and the whole operation is so disorganized and in disarrays that only some people seem to receive satisfactory services. The situation is so grave that we believe that your kind personal intervention is now necessary to provide appropriate assistance to the Consulate-General so that he can solve this well-known prevailing problem”.
INOC and NRI-SAHI Team cite deplorable conditions upon visiting the Muzaffarnagar refugee camps
Ateam consisting of George Abraham, Chairman and Harbachan Singh, General Secretary of the INOC (I) (Indian National Overseas Congress (I), USA) along with Mohammed Imran, Joint Coordinator of the NRI-SAHI (Non-resident Indians for a Secular and Harmonious India) visited the Malakpura refugee camp for the Muzaffarnagar riot victims and learned first hand the deplorable conditions under which those victims are forced to live.
‘It is a shame on our great democracy when we let these riots happen and then disregard the plight of the innocent victims to live in such a wretched condition without basic necessities and growing threat of diseases’ said George Abraham, who headed the team to visit Muzaffarnagar. ‘This is the height of incivility and indecency and a responsible system of governance has to be held accountable’ he added.
‘It is shocking to see the inaction by a Government that is supposed to protect the lives and properties of its citizens’ said Mohammad Imran who also vowed to do his very best in getting the information across to the authorities and the media. The team first visited Muzaffarnagar where a legal team is doing their best to assist the victims. The team met with Rahimuddin, Sajjad Hussain and Saifan who briefed us on the events leading to the riots and the political motives and the players behind the scenes.
These volunteers are working with an NGO called ‘Popular Front of India Civil Rights Movement’ to get justice for the victims including compensation for resettlement. In our discussions, we were told that FIRs were filed against 19 politicians for inciting riots and three of them have been arrested for a short time and then released. The team repeatedly heard of the criticism of the appointment of Amit Shah, the former home minister of Gujarat who was arrested on charges of encounter killings in Gujarat as the Modi Campaign Coordinator for the Western U.P. before the riots.
The Muzaffarnagar riots took place in September 2013 that killed about 67 people, injured 150 and displaced about 45000 people to the refugee camps. In addition, several women were raped and scores of houses were looted and torched including places of worship and items. Although 566 FIRs were filed, very few cases are currently being heard in the courts. It is alleged that the State Government headed by the Samajawadi party is more interested in pushing people out of camps for a Public Relations exercise than hearing their complaints of settling the claims.
‘The Jats and the Muslims are the same people culturally who have lived in peace over the years’ said one of the volunteers who is involved with relief efforts. ‘When an Imam issued a fatwa over the use of cell phone by Muslim women, the whole community, including the Jats and Muslims went to the Police Station and filed an FIR against such an illegal action. Breaking up of that unity was politically motivated’ The team traveled another 52 Km to the village of Malakpura to visit the largest camp where about 5000 victims are housed.
It took almost 3.5 hours to cover that distance where the roads are of such bad conditions that one couldn’t help but to think that these camps were deliberately put in remote places where people would not dare to travel thereby leaving the victims without proper support from NGOs or Civil Society groups. The mere sight of the camp looked dusty and dirty with numerous tents covered with sheets of tarpaulin providing protection from scorching sun and severe cold temperature at night. The Children were running around barefoot while others were huddled indoors hoping to stay warm. Tents were torn and some looked collapsed barely surviving the winter months.
The family belongings are scattered across and few bricks put together made up of a cooking facility outside the tent. Except for some hand pumps providing water, there was no steady supply of milk for the infants or fuel for cooking other than cut leaves from nearby sugar canes, They have lived through one of the harshest winters in history and often at nights, we were told, freezing water would be seeping down through the tarp and causing many children to fall ill and succumb to deaths right at the camp. We met a woman who is grieving for two of her children who recently died at the camp.
We were also shown the freshly dug grave sites where many of these bodies of the children were recently buried. The men we met at the camp were eager to get back to work however; there was very little opportunity to find jobs around the camp. The children are deprived of their education as there are no logistics to send them to nearby schools. The refugees are afraid to go back to their own villages as they fear for their lives and the authorities are doing very little either to assure their safety or resettle them in other parts of the State where they could possibly resume normal lives. It is a great tragedy that is heart breaking and yet still unfolding.
Northeast Queens Council Members, Community Leaders Call on Mayor to Honor Commitment to Cease Gouging Taxpayers with Water Rates
NEW YORK (TIP): Northeast Queens Council Members and community leaders, on Thursday, March 20, called on Mayor Bill de Blasio to honor his pledge to cease gouging taxpayers with excessively high water rates — a practice that the Mayor decried as “wrong” and a “stealth tax” during his campaign.
The Council Members, Rory I. Lancman, Mark S. Weprin and Paul A. Vallone, released a letter to the Mayor at a press conference held in Fresh Meadows, Queens, following Lancman’s demand for action at a City Council Environmental Protection hearing held last week. Water rates are set annually by the New York City Water Board, which comprises seven members appointed by the Mayor. The revenues in part pay the debt service on bonds sold to build the City’s environmental infrastructure (water tunnels, filtration plants, etc.) issued by two sources: (a) the New York City Water Finance Authority (WFA) (comprising seven members, four of whom are appointed by the Mayor), and (b) the City itself prior to the Water Finance Authority’s creation in 1984.
The bonds are repaid through rent installments to the City for leasing its environmental infrastructure to the Water Board in an amount either (a) equal to the City’s annual debt service obligations on the City’s bonds, or (b) 15% of the Water Finance Authority’s annual debt service — whichever is greater, although the Mayor has the authority to seek the lesser amount in his annual payment demand to the Water Board. Prior to 2005, the City had always secured the former sum from the Water Board; payment equaled the debt service on City bonds. Starting in 2005 however, the City started demanding the latter sum at 15%, which had become greater than the total represented by the city’s general obligation for water and sewer debt service.
Since then, water rates have exceeded the cost of the City’s debt service. The prior Mayor refused to lower the City’s annual rent demand to the amount necessary to pay only the City’s water and sewer-related debt service. What resulted were astronomical water tax increases that have been used to prop up the City’s general fund. Despite the City’s water and sewer debt gradually shrinking over time, by 2012, the gap between the 15% figure and the City’s water debt had grown rapidly due to increases to the WFA debt service. Although payments were capped at the FY11 payment (given the rate of inflation), in many of the last ten years water rates have increased by double digits, and have cumulatively increased by an incredible 78% since 2005:
This fiscal year, for example, the City owes approximately $50 million in debt service; however, the Water Board is expected to pay an approximate $205 million in rent. In other words, water users will be overbilled $155 million. During his 2013 campaign, then-Public Advocate Bill de Blasio condemned the city’s practice of using water rates imposed on middle class homeowners and small businesses to divert money into the City’s general fund: “For decades, the water system only charged customers what it needed to cover its costs. But now, anyone who pays a water bill is sending more and more of their money into the city’s general budget.
It’s wrong and it has to stop.” — Public Advocate Bill de Blasio, April 16, 2013 “I’m urging the Mayor to honor his commitment to eliminate these hidden taxes and not charge residents for a cost greater than what the system’s infrastructure requires,” Lancman said. Council Members Mark Weprin and Paul Vallone joined in penning the letter demanding an end to the inflated water tax. “We need the mayor to stop this back door tax once and for all,” Council Member Weprin stated. “Anyone who has lived in New York City for the past decade can tell you that water and sewer rates have risen dramatically,” said Council Member Vallone. “I’m proud to stand with my fellow Council Members in asking our Mayor to stop overcharging the Water Board for rent so that excessive billing doesn’t fall onto the backs of our City’s taxpayers.”
Some of the community leaders in attendance at the press conference included Bob Harris, President of the West Cunningham Park Civic Association; Yolanda Delacruz-Gallagher, board member of the Fresh Meadows Homeowners Civic Association; Jennifer Martin, Co-President of the Kew Gardens Hills Civic Association; Harbachan Singh, Vice President of the Queens Civic Congress; Rosa Chong, Board Member of the Fresh Meadows Homeowners Civic Association; and Jackie Forrestal, Board Member of the Hillcrest Estates Civic Association. Homeowners voiced their outrage over the exorbitant increases in water rates.
“It’s impossible for us to survive these increases,” said Ms. Delacruz-Gallagher. “The simple gift of sustenance is a right, one we need to survive. Years ago, you paid thirty to fifty dollars. Now, you have to watch every drop that comes from the faucet.” Harbachan Singh spoke on behalf of the Queens Civic Congress: “Rising water rates has been the cash cow of the Mayor for too long. These funds are being used to bridge budget gaps and fuel other projects unrelated to water service.
Water is a precious commodity and a basic human right; this policy is totally wrong.” Residents stressed the everyday strains they faced because of water woes. Ms. Chong decried being unable to afford using basic appliances such as dishwashers and sprinklers, hand washing dishes and using rainwater collected in barrels to water her garden instead. “Every little bit helps when the cost is so high.” “Progressive government means fair and transparent taxes,” said Lancman, “and as the Mayor acknowledges, our water rate system has been neither for too long. He has all the authority he needs to change that, and I urge him to do so this year.”
NEW YORK (TIP): INOC leaders met with Ministers of State for External Affairs E. Ahamed and Preneet Kaur and urged transparency and community input into selecting a replacement for BLS, the current vendor who has done a disservice to the community and the nation.
The team comprised of George Abraham (Chairman), Mohinder Singh Gilzian (Vice- President), Harbachan Singh (General Secretary), Sawaran Singh ( EC Member) and Juned Qazi (EC Member & M.P. Chapter President) met with the ministers and submitted a memorandum detailing the grievances of the community in dealing with the BLS, the visa processing agency that replaced Travisa.
The leaders also took the memorandum with media reports and submitted them to the External Affairs Ministry and to the attention of Salman Khurshid, the minister in charge who is said to have terminated the current contract with the BLS. ‘We have been candid to the ministers of the damage the agency has done to the reputation and credibility of India’ said George Abraham, Chairman of INOC.
INOC leaders George Abraham, Mohinder Singh Gilzian, Harbachan Singh, Juned Qazi and Sawaran Singh met with Ministers of State for External Affairs E. Ahamed and Preneet Kaur and urged transparency and community input into selecting a replacement for BLS, the current vendor who has done a disservice to the community and the nation. With Minister of State for External Affairs. (L to R): Mohinder Singh Gilzian, George Abraham, Preneet Kaur, Sawaran Singh and Harbachan Singh
‘We also cautioned the ministry about a re-packaged BLS under another name as this group seems to have quite a bit of political clout dealing with the Government’ Mr. Abraham added. The leaders also expressed their appreciation and support to the efforts of New York Consul General Ambassador D.M. Mulay to the Ministers and urged them to implement his recommendations.
According to some reports, envelopes that are containing passports and visa applications are lying around the BLS office for many weeks unopened creating so much havoc for the tourists and businessmen in their planning of trips to India. The uncertainty it has created particularly for the business travelers may have such a long lasting negative impact as many of them might have been considering India as an investment destination.
There are also allegations of corruption targeting the unsuspected visa seekers. The Ministry has not denied the reports that of the issuance of visas to people who may have received political asylum. In a letter addressed to the Minister of External Affairs, INOC leaders said the following: ‘We sincerely believe that an investigation is warranted upon the termination of this contract and a new Request for Proposals/Bids should be floated locally in New York and a contract awarded after a proper vetting by a Board which should perhaps have a representative from the local Indian Community as well’.
Youth Club celebrated the 65th Republic Day of India at Hanuman Mandir in Glen Oaks, February 2. Assemblyman David Weprin did the flag hoisting to officially inaugurate India Day in New York which was followed by Indian and US anthems.
Over 500 kids & adults participated in the day long event. Cash prizes were given for debate & drawing competitions. Malini Shah representing Paul Vallone (District 19) presented to the organizers citations from Council Member Mark Weprin & Council Member Paul Vallone.
Among those who attended were Harbachan Singh, Harpreet Singh Toor, Neel Modi, Dr Anila Midha, Prof. Indrajit S Saluja, Jeet Singh Sohi, Manu Rampal, and Vidya Bhushan Sharma.
NEW YORK (TIP): At a meeting organized by Malini Shah at the residence of Harbachan Singh on January 25, 2014 a group of motivated Indian Americans joined together to provide support to Ms. Swati Dandekar, a candidate of Indian origin, who is making a run for a US Congress seat from the State of Iowa this fall.
Swati Dandekar won a seat in the Iowa State Assembly in 2002 and a seat in the Iowa Senate in 2009 and is now geared up for winning a seat in US. Congress. In welcoming Swati Dandekar, Harbachan Singh, a community activist and a leader of several organizations, said that Swati was a professional and a seasoned politician.
Her experience and performance during the last ten years is a glowing testimony that she is fully ready, dynamic and highly capable of best representing all the people of Iowa in particular and all of us of Indian origin in general in the US Congress. Her success will resonate in US and in India alike and will demonstrate that we are capable and willing to fill leadership positions and contribute in the beautiful mosaic of the US political system.
Swati Dandekar with Mr. Mulay and a group of her supporters
Consul General Ambassador Dnyaneshwar Mulay who also attended the event was very happy to note that Indian Americans were coming forward to play an active role in the politics of their new homeland. He believed that it was their civic duty to fully engage themselves in all the activities of Government and also help build bridges between the two largest democracies in the world. He urged all Indian Americans to help each other and assimilate and integrate nicely with the local communities and keep forging ahead up the ladder to leadership levels.
George Abraham congratulated Ms. Dandekar on her success in Iowa and wished her support and cooperation in her bid to become the first Congresswoman from the State. Sunil Modi and Eric Kumar also spoke lauding the efforts of Swati. Others present were Mohinder Singh Gilzian, Dilip Chauhan, Gunjan Rastogi, Leela Maret, Oommen Koshy, Gajendra Ganesan, Manoj Shinde, Piyush Patel, Arvind Dandekar, Prof. Indrajit Singh Saluja, Benjamin Gaines and Niti Kapoor. Others who could not attend but lent support included, Pam Kwatra, Dr. Binod Verma, Thomas Abraham and Indu Jaiswal. Special guest of the evening was the former Lt. Governor of the State of Iowa Hon. Patty Judge.
NEW YORK (TIP): Death of Sarabjit Singh as a result of injuries inflicted on him in a brutal attack in Kot Lakhpat Rai jail in Pakistan has evoked strong condemnation from the Indian community across the world. Indian National Overseas Congress (I) USA in a statement said it strongly condemns the murder of the Indian prisoner Sarabjit Singh in the Pakistani Government custody. He died following a vicious assault by fellow prisoners in Kot Lakpat jail in Pakistan. ‘We share the grief of the family and of the nation’ said George Abraham, President of the INOC (I),USA. ‘Civility and the International law that should govern foreign prisoners in custody are thrown out of the window and Pakistan may be in violation of the Geneva protocol in this regard’ the statement added.
It is a barbaric crime and the culprits need to be apprehended and punished to the fullest extent of the law’ said Shudh Prakash Singh, Sr. Vice-President of the INOC (I), USA. ‘Our hearts and minds are with the family and a shocked nation’ the statement added. After almost two decades of mental and torturous agony, Sarabjit Singh allegedly succumbed to the battered wounds he sustained in the jail cell. The governmental authorities cannot absolve itself of responsibility in this incident. “All the hard work of leaders from both countries who try to build bridges of cooperation and understanding hits zero when such indiscriminate acts are allowed to happen that are not only contrary to international law and order but also are highly provocative.” said Harbachan Singh, Acting General Secretary of INOC(I) USA. “When people cannot stop hating others, chances are that hate could begin to grow within them, he lamented. INOC(I) USA expresses its deepest sadness at the terrible tragedy that occurred and joins with all those who mourn the loss of Sarabjit Singh. INOC(I) USA call upon all peace loving people in the world to help ensure that the perpetrators of this tragedy are apprehended and prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
Thomas T Oommen, a leader of the Christian community in the Tri- States area, in a statement said: “Indian Christian community in North America strongly protest the killings of the two Indian prisoners who were imprisoned in Pakistan. We urge the government of India to do a thorough investigation, and find out why the government machinery failed to proactively pursue the demands made by the family of Mr. Sarabjit Singh. This is the second Indian subjected to brutality in Pak jail. Both of them died. Also we request the government to look into the matter of Indian citizens being held in foreign prisons. Fashion designer Anand Jon is in the US prison. We sincerely hope that the death of Mr. Sarabjit Singh will be an eye opener and authorities will take this matter very seriously.” Master Mohinder Singh, a prominent leader of the Sikh community in New York blamed Pakistani authorities for the tragic death of Sarabjit Singh.
He condemned the inaction of government of India in securing Sarabjit Singh’s life which was known to be threatened. He also accused the government of India of discrimination against the Sikh community and consistent denial of justice by craftily protecting those responsible for killings of Sikhs in 1984, as has happened recently when Sajjan Kumar, accused of engineering murder of dozens of Sikhs in Delhi in 1984 was let off the hook. Similarly, the unfair trial and sentencing to death and subsequent denial of mercy petition of Prof. Davinderpaul Singh Bhullar has also led to an uncomfortable feeling in the community the world over and hence the widespread demand for his immediate release. The attitude of government of India on the Sikh issues alienates even the most liberal Sikhs within and outside India.
Signup to our Newsletter!
Don’t miss out on all the happenings around the world
