In the bustling thoroughfares of New York City, a remarkable incident unfolded, capturing attention and igniting crucial discussions.
Along Fifth Avenue, a colossal puppet bearing a striking resemblance to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi rode in a convertible, wielding a banner featuring a bold message: “I could shoot someone on Fifth Avenue and get away with it, OK?”
This daring spectacle, reminiscent of a contentious remark by former presidential candidate Donald Trump in 2016, transcended mere theatrics; it stood as a poignant symbol of protest and a fervent plea for worldwide acknowledgment.
Joint endeavour by diaspora groups
This extraordinary protest was conceived by prominent diaspora organisations representing Hindu, Sikh, and Muslim communities. These groups came together in a show of unity and strength to highlight what they call, “a disturbing and pressing issue: the alleged strategy of the Indian government in assassinating and intimidating US citizens of Indian descent, as well as other activists living abroad.”
“The audacity of this act in a foreign nation and its implications for international relations and human rights have raised significant alarms.”, the groups allege.
Alarming Incidents and International Concerns
The backdrop to this protest is a series of troubling events that have unfolded both in the United States and Canada. In June, reports emerged of an alleged attempt by Indian authorities to assassinate a US citizen in New York. This harrowing incident occurred simultaneously with the killing of a prominent Canadian Sikh activist. The situation escalated to such an extent that the FBI felt compelled to warn several activists in California about similar threats.
According to the diaspora civil society groups, these incidents are not random or isolated; they represent a clear and disturbing pattern of behaviour that has caught the attention of US prosecutors and the international community.
Demand for action
Hindus for Human Rights said in a message: “The point we make is deadly serious. American lives are not chips in trade deals. It’s high time President Biden acknowledges this reality and communicates unequivocally to both American citizens and Prime Minister Modi that our lives matter and are to be protected.”
Echoing the same sentiments, Indian American Muslim Council highlighted the urgency of the situation: “We find ourselves asking who is next and what will it take for our government to intervene? America needs to stand up not just for its citizens but also for the principles of democracy and human rights across the globe.”
