Are We Indians The Victim Of Racism Or Predator Of Racism?

Indians have been victims of hate crimes and racism in United States and Australia for a long time. Most recent incidents being shooting down an Indian engineer, Srinivas Kuchibhotla, in an Austin Bar and attack on an Indian origin cab driver in Hobart, Australia. We have expressed our outrage over such attacks and pressurized the government to ensure the safety of Indians abroad.

But, the recent mob attacks on Nigerian Students in Noida,has turned the mirror towards us,showing us our inhumane side.This particular case has marked a new low in the racism faced by Africans in India.

It all started with the death of a 16 year old teenager,Manoj Khari,due to a drug overdose. It was further alleged that the drugs were supplied to Khari by his five Nigerian neighbours.The accused Nigerians were detained by the police,followed by their release due to lack of evidence.

Later, the family and numerous supporters of the deceased, organized a peaceful candle march, but some of them turned violent and started attacking the African students.

Since then, more incidents of attack on African students have come into limelight further questioning their safety in a country living by the motto- “Atithi Devo Bhavah” (The Guests Are Equivalent To God).

Indian Universities have been preferred by African students because of the quality education available here at an affordable fee.Moreover,the Indian students also get an opportunity to interact with African students and learn more about their culture and habits.

Just like Indians abroad,Africans have also been facing discrimination in India like not being allowed to enter certain pubs, being overcharged as consumers,unavailability of decent accommodations as they are believed to be “suspicious”. They have been stereotyped as dangerous, prone to violence,cannibals and sex workers.

With such violent treatments of racism prevailing in India, it‚Äôs hard to expect a fair treatment towards Indians in other countries. African countries have always stood in support of Indians and such racial treatments don’t only bring disharmony in these ties but could also stain India‚Äôs global image.