Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to inclusive growth in India has garnered significant praise from leaders within various Indian-American communities. This commendation came to light during the Global Equity Alliance Summit, a half-day event hosted at Washington Adventist University on Friday. At the summit, leaders highlighted the safety and security enjoyed by minority communities in India under Modi’s governance. The event, a collaborative effort between the Indian Minorities Foundation and Chandigarh University, also marked the momentous launch of the Association of American Indian Minorities (AAIM). This new organization’s formation comes amidst a concerning rise in attacks targeting Hindu temples in the US and Canada this year.
In recognition of Prime Minister Modi’s dedication to inclusive development and the well-being of minority groups, Washington Adventist University and the AAIM bestowed upon him the prestigious Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Global Peace Award for Minority Upliftment. Given Modi’s inability to attend, Chandigarh University Chancellor Satnam Singh Sandhu graciously accepted the award on his behalf. The AAIM’s core mission, as outlined by organizers, is to foster unity among minorities in the United States and actively champion the safety and security of Indian-American minority communities.
Jasdip Singh Jasse, founder and chairman of the AAIM, eloquently articulated the organization’s inspiration: “Modi’s vision of minority upliftment and development inspired us to form this organization. This initiative isn’t confined to the US; it’s designed for global expansion. We aim to extend Modi’s vision of minority upliftment and security worldwide.” He further expressed gratitude, stating, “We thank Modi for inspiring us through his secular and democratic values that Bharat is spreading throughout the world.” The ultimate goal, Singh emphasized, is to unite all minority groups in the US and ensure their safety.
Dr. Cheryl Harris Kisunzu, Provost at Washington Adventist University, drew insightful parallels, stating, “I see in Prime Minister Modi and I see in Martin Luther King Jr. parallels in that they recognize the power of a dream. A dream where all people are esteemed and have value and access. They are mindful that in order for those dreams to be realised that a structure, a legal structure is required.” This sentiment underscores the shared vision of both leaders for a just and equitable society.
Elisha B Pulivarti, CEO of the US India SME Council, offered further support, highlighting Modi’s efforts for the benefit of Christians and other minority groups in India. Pulivarti stated, “Today (under Prime Minister Modi) Christians are safe (in India). We endorse him for his leadership. As a Christian, I know a lot of Bishops and work with them in India…We thank him for what he’s doing for the Christian community and other minority communities.” This statement directly addresses concerns about the treatment of religious minorities in India.
The AAIM’s board of directors boasts a diverse membership, including Baljinder Singh, Dr. Sukhpal Dhanoa, Pawan Bezwada, Dipak Thakker, Juned Qazi, and Nissim Reuben, alongside Singh and Pulivarti. Reuben expressed his gratitude, saying, “We are very grateful to our Motherland India, to Prime Minister Modi, and the Indian leadership across the political spectrum for the safety and wellbeing of the Jewish minority in India.” This representation showcases the broad-based support for Modi’s policies among diverse religious communities.
David Byrd, former National Director of the US Department of Commerce Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), offered a powerful closing statement, characterizing India’s role on the world stage: “India is the new Switzerland: Strategic neutral, but yet helping other countries solve the problems between themselves.” This comparison highlights India’s growing influence in international affairs.
The Global Equity Alliance Summit and the launch of the AAIM represent a significant development in fostering unity and promoting the well-being of Indian-American minority communities. The accolades bestowed upon Prime Minister Modi underscore the international recognition of his commitment to inclusive governance and minority rights.
