The Australian incident

From Dil Chahta Hai to Chak De India! traveling south to Australia has been shown as a friendly country that Indians can co-exist peacefully. The 97,000-strong Indian student community comprises 18% of the total international student population and contributes to Australian economy, culture and workforce. More than 1400 attacks isn't an off incident. Racism raised its ugly head once again and is the cause of much pain and anguish for parents and families back home. Indian and Australian governments should work fast to resolve these issues and prevent further attacks on Indian students. We should together ensure that no divisive power should win. I spoke to some of my friends in Australia and they tell me that the situation is brightening. Many Australian citizens are offering shelter, help and support to their cause which is a good sign. The spirit of freedom should be allowed to win and not bow down for a few law breakers. At the same time they are scared of going to certain blocks and neighborhood.

I condemn the attacks on Indian students and the intent. And I want to point at the mirror. I think this is a time when we should let go of all our biases, racism, caste and religious differences in our home land, fight and stop all kinds of oppression. This should remind us disquietingly of the face we see in our own mirror. Care to wash it?

One thing is for sure. Whether this issue calms down peacefully or not it won't help persuade Indian parents that Australia is a safe place to send their children. And this is not good for Australia. So let the repair work begin and better be fast.