Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 01:22pm on 16 Dec 2023,Saturday India Global
The US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) calls on the Biden administration to designate India a "Country of Particular Concern" citing threats to religious freedom. USCIRF highlights India's alleged efforts to silence activists, journalists, and lawyers abroad. The watchdog mentions India's systematic violations, urging the US State Department's action under the Religious Freedom Act. Commissioner Stephen Schneck expresses deep concern over India's alleged involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar and a plot against Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. India responds, assuring examination of shared inputs. USCIRF emphasizes the dangerous extension of domestic repression targeting religious minorities abroad.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 11:56am on 16 Dec 2023,Saturday India Global
Indian-origin truck driver Jaskirat Singh Sidhu, responsible for a fatal 2018 crash in Canada, has lost his bid to remain in the country. Sentenced to eight years for the accident that killed 16 people, Sidhu's plea was dismissed, leading to potential deportation to India. The Federal Court rejected claims of unfair assessment, stating officials considered Sidhu's record and genuine remorse. Despite facing removal, Sidhu can still seek humanitarian grounds to stay. The tragic incident occurred when Sidhu's semi-trailer failed to stop, colliding with a bus carrying the Humboldt Broncos hockey team, resulting in 16 fatalities and 13 injuries.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 08:15am on 16 Dec 2023,Saturday India Global
Oman's Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, on a three-day state visit, received a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu greeted him. Bilateral talks ensued, highlighting the longstanding India-Oman friendship rooted in history, culture, and defense cooperation. The visit is a significant diplomatic milestone, reinforcing ties and showcasing Oman's unique status as the sole Gulf partner where all Indian Armed Forces conduct regular bilateral exercises. The Sultanate also participated actively in India's G20 Presidency, fostering collaboration on various fronts.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 06:12am on 16 Dec 2023,Saturday India Global
Five Indian-American members of the US Congress, including Ami Bera and Pramila Jayapal, issued a joint statement expressing deep concern over the alleged plot to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. They warned of potential damage to India-US relations if not appropriately addressed. The lawmakers emphasized the need for a thorough Indian investigation, accountability, and assurances to prevent such incidents. Nikhil Gupta, accused in the murder plot, faces charges in the US, where he was arrested in the Czech Republic. The Indian government's high-level committee announcement was welcomed by the Congress members.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 05:53am on 16 Dec 2023,Saturday India Global
India's permanent UN representative, Ruchira Kamboj, passionately urged the international community, stating, "Having fought the scourge of terrorism for several decades, India is aware of the perils." Addressing the UNSC Open Debate on Small Arms, Kamboj stressed the link between illicit arms and conflicts, declaring, "The increase in volume and quality of arsenals reminds us that terrorists cannot exist without state sponsorship." She called for "zero tolerance" and coordinated global efforts against terror actors. Advocating international cooperation, Kamboj asserted, "It is important that this council exercise zero tolerance for terror actors and their sponsors, their possession and misuse of small arms."
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 08:14pm on 15 Dec 2023,Friday India Global
In a historic event at the UK’s House of Commons, lawmakers and leaders lauded India's extraordinary achievements over the past nine years under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. The Sadhbhavna event, organized by the Indian Minorities Foundation, saw the release of two books on PM Modi, highlighting his deep connection with Sikhism and the transformative impact of his radio program, 'Mann Ki Baat @100.' The UK parliamentarians, along with Indian diaspora members, pledged support for PM Modi's vision of a 'Developed India' by 2047 through the "London Resolution." The resolution underscores their commitment to actively contribute to India's progress and development under PM Modi's visionary leadership. The event showcased India's global prominence and growing bilateral relations with the UK, emphasizing the nation's strides in technology and economic prowess.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 05:53pm on 15 Dec 2023,Friday India Global
The Indian consulate in Wales, in collaboration with the Sikh Council of Wales, marked the 554th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev at Cardiff University. First Minister Mark Drakeford and Indian High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami attended the event, emphasizing unity and celebrating the Sikh Guru's teachings. Raj Aggarwal, the Indian Consul, lauded the diverse turnout, stating, "The diaspora in Wales are hard-working and prosperous and are an amazing asset to the country." High Commissioner Doraiswami reflected on the three pillars of "dedicated work, sharing, and sincere faith" during his meeting with Wales First Minister Drakeford.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 10:59am on 15 Dec 2023,Friday India Global
The family of Nikhil Gupta, accused of plotting the murder of Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in the US, has approached India's Supreme Court, seeking government intervention to release him from prison in the Czech Republic, reported Live Law. Gupta's family alleged religious rights violations, claiming he was forced to consume beef and pork in custody, a direct violation of his fundamental rights and religious beliefs. Gupta also asserts denial of consular access, contact with family, and legal representation. The Supreme Court has deemed the matter "extremely sensitive" for the Ministry of External Affairs and scheduled a hearing on January 4, 2023.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 06:28pm on 14 Dec 2023,Thursday India Global
Indian Parliament Member Galla Jayadev advocates for Indian H-1B and H-4 visa holders as the US introduces a renewal condition excluding dependents, necessitating their return to India. While a new pilot program allows in-country renewal for H-1B workers, it excludes H-4 dependents. Jayadev's plea highlights the distress among families and calls for Indian government intervention. The issue resonates in Parliament, emphasizing the broader impact on Indian professionals and their kin in the US. Advocacy continues for inclusive renewal measures, addressing the welfare of Indian families under the H-1B and H-4 visa categories.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 04:23am on 14 Dec 2023,Thursday India Global
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau clarified his September 18 House of Commons statement on allegations tying Indian agents to Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing. In an interview, Trudeau explained, “We felt... quiet diplomacy... needed a further level of deterrence.” Stressing concerns over Canadians' vulnerability, he expressed intent to reveal evidence on June 18. Responding to US comparisons, Trudeau stated, “Canada is investigating a murder and our justice system has different processes.” He accused India of an information war and ineffective discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the G20 summit. India's Ministry of External Affairs has yet to respond to Trudeau's remarks.