January 13, 2004

Indian Muslim Council-USA, an advocacy group working towards safeguarding India’s pluralist and tolerant ethos, welcomes the efforts of members of Congress to draw attention to the dire situation of minorities in the Indian state of Gujarat.

Dr. Shaik Ubaid, President of IMC-USA, expressed gratitude to members of US Congress who met with the victims of Gujarat genocide and spoke out against the rise of Hindutva-fascism. He further added that, “We also wish to thank the delegation members who raised these issues in their meetings with the Indian government officials and business representatives.”

IMC-USA had launched a campaign to educate the delegation members on the growing persecution of minorities and Dalits in India. In meetings with delegation members and their staff, IMC-USA emphasized that the rise of Hindutva-fascism and attempts by the proponents of Hindutva to instill hatred in the coming generations of Indians does not bode well for India’s secular democracy and economic prosperity. The delegation members were also made aware of media reports that have tracked the transfer of funds from the United States to Hindutva “hate groups” responsible for the recurring anti-minority violence in India.

IMC-USA expresses satisfaction that its campaign was successful and praises the efforts of the representatives of Christian, Dalit, and secular groups who were partners in this campaign.

Also see:
http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/00209213016.htm
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/414555.cms

Contact:
Rasheed Ahmed
(708) 466 0244