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PRESS RELEASE
Feb 7, 2003
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Washington think tank alerts US on growing terrorism and religious politics in South Asia. Dr. Gidoomal urges, monitoring of funds used to promote religious violence in South Asia:
(February 10, 2003) -- The
Policy Institute for Religion and State organized a press conference on Friday morning at the National Press Club, Washington DC on the subject of terrorism and security in South Asia featuring Dr. Ram Gidoomal CBE,
a well known businessman, social activist and a candidate in the London Mayoral 2000 elections in the UK.
Dr. Gidoomal launched the document, entitled "Healing the Wounds -
Minorities and Human rights in India" - a publication of the proceedings of a conference held in London on August 15, 2002 following the tragic events that took place in Gujarat in February 2002. Many well-known scholars and social activists from the US, UK and India took part in the proceedings. Dr. Gidoomal warned that "Non Resident Indians must exercise utmost vigilance when remitting funds to South Asia. It is imperative that funds flow are monitored to minimize the risk of misappropriation which could result in increasing the risks associated with terrorism and security"
Excerpt from Introduction of the report:
"Since 27 February, 2000 Gujarat has been at the center stage of Indian politics. From the hideous violence of Godhra to the elections in December and
beyond, events in Gujarat have evoked strong emotions across India and, indeed, around the world.
Hatred, suspicion and fear have been dominant. But there have also been many welcome examples of people acting with courage, honor, self-sacrifice and a concern for justice.
'Gujarat today, India tomorrow'
is a commonly heard slogan from the Hindutva brigade.
That makes it all the more important to examine carefully what has been happening in Gujarat, for better or for worse, and to consider the implications for India and beyond…"
Recommendations to the Indian Diaspora:
1. Establish a coalition
2. Encourage local groups
3. Give generously and responsibly
4. Strengthen minority communities
5. Peace in South Asia
TO OBTAIN A COPY OF THIS REPORT, PLEASE CONTACT:
info@pifras.org
**This Press Conference was Sponsored by the Muslim Public Affairs Council, Federation of Indian American Christian Organizations of North America, Indian Muslim Council and the Association of Indian
Muslims of America**
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