VOLUME I | Issue 10 | FRIDAY | JUNE 12 | 2020 US 50C
VOLUME I | Issue 01 | FRIDAY | APRIL 10 | 2020 US 50C
CANADA | USA | BRAZIL | INDIA
NORTH AMERICAN NEWSLINE
BIG
BIG
End of an Era: STORY
Ramesh Bhai Patel uu 4
Passes away uu 12
SOuTH AMERICA NEWS Covid-19 Crisis
Another lockdown?
Biggest Vande
Bharat mission
from latin
america sends as cases of infections and deaths rise constantly, making india the fourth
country on the list of worst-affected nations, states dispel rumors of a
696 indians
home uu 34 fresh lockdown. But can india check the rapid rise in coronavirus cases
without tough measures?
NA
NA
NA NA
NEWSLINE NEWSLINE
uu 18 uu 30
hh mahant swami maharaj Offers Prayers iaaC and New york indian Film Festival
on the Passing of Community leader present a conversation with
Ramesh Patel Gurinder Chadha
2 The Indian Eye | SEEN & HEARD JUNE 12, 2020
The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, conducts a review of the Kedarnath Dham development and reconstruction project with
the Uttarakhand state government via video conferencing, in New Delhi on June 10
The Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs, Nirmala Sitharaman, chairing the 40th GST Council meeting via video
conferencing, in New Delhi on June 12. The Minister of State for Finance and Corporate Affairs, Anurag Singh Thakur, is also seen
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JUNE 12, 2020 3
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4 The Indian Eye| BIG STORY | JUNE 12, 2020
Covid-19 Crisis
Another lockdown?
As cases of infections and deaths rise constantly, making india the fourth country on the list of worst-
affected nations, states dispel rumors of a fresh lockdown. But can india check the rapid rise in
coronavirus cases without tough measures?
Our BureAu ernment is planning a 10,000-bed
New Delhi/Mumbai makeshift hospital for Covid-19
patients under a sprawling tent
rime Minister Narendra in south Delhi to prepare for a
Modi on Saturday re- projected surge in cases in the
Pviewed the country’s re- city. The planned Covid-19 facil-
sponse to the Covid-19 pandem- ity will come up at the south Del-
ic with senior ministers and top hi campus of spiritual organiza-
bureaucrats. He took stock of tion Radha Soami Satsang Beas.
the pandemic situation in differ- The lush green campus is lo-
ent states and union territories, cated near the Delhi-Haryana
including Delhi, the Prime Min- border. The Covid-19 facility,
ister’s Office said in a statement. which will be 1,700 feet long and
During the meet, it was ob- 700 feet wide, will have 200 en-
served that two-thirds of India’s highest single-day increase so cases. closures with 50 beds each, said
Covid-19 infection load are in far. With this, the tally rose to In Delhi, health minister Sa- Vikas Sethi, secretary of Rad-
five states with an overwhelming 2,97,535. The toll from the dis- tyendar Jain officially rejected ha Soami Satsang Beas, Bhati
proportion of cases in big cities, ease stood at 8,498. India, which the possibility and stated in clear Mines. This makeshift hospital
the statement said. is gradually easing restrictions terms that “the lockdown in Del- will be the largest such facility
Ten days after recording two imposed during the nationwide hi will no longer be extended”. in the city so far. The work is ex-
lakh Covid-19 cases, India sur- lockdown, is now the fourth Till June 1, Delhi had 20,834 pected to be completed by the
passed the three lakh-mark on most-affected country in the Covid cases and 523 deaths. As end of June, he said.
Saturday with the worst daily world. Maharashtra, Delhi, Tam- of Friday, a total of 36,824 peo- According to the Delhi gov-
spike of 11,458 infections, while il Nadu and Gujarat are among ple in Delhi had been infected ernment’s estimates, coronavi-
the death toll too climbed to the worst-hit states. (including recoveries) and the rus cases in the national capital
8,884 with 386 new fatalities, the On Saturday, Maharashtra, number of deaths rose to 1,214. are likely to breach the 500,000-
Union Health Ministry said. In Tamil Nadu and the National The capital had witnessed 1,877 mark by the end of July. Around
Delhi, the number of infections Capital Territory of Delhi an- Covid cases in one day on Thurs- 100,000 beds will be needed for
stood at 36,824. nounced on Friday that there day, leading to speculation that Covid-19 patients. The city has
Prime Minister Narendra would be no reimposition of the the government may order an- a total 9,647 dedicated Covid-19
Modi will hold a meeting with lockdown. The statements came other lockdown. beds in state-run, central and
the chief ministers of all the in response to wide speculation The TN government in- private hospitals. Of these, 5,402
states over video conference on that there would another shut- formed the Madras high court are occupied.
June 16 and 17, amid a sharp down from June 15 due to the that it had no plans for now to The Delhi government has
increase in the number of coro- unabating growth of Covid-19 completely lock down Chennai also started the process to iden-
navirus cases in India. The cases. or any other part of the state. tify community halls and stadi-
Prime Minister’s Office tweeted Maharashtra chief minister Separately, chief minister Edap- ums which can be converted into
a schedule of his meetings with Uddhav Thackeray said on Fri- padi K Palaniswami denied a makeshift Covid-19 hospitals.
the chief ministers. On June 17, day there was no plan to reim- social media post attributing an Meanwhile, 96 days after
Modi will speak to the chief min- pose a lockdown from June 15. announcement of a new lock- the coronavirus arrived in the
isters of the most-affected states. The CMO tweeted an appeal down to him, saying, “A message state with a Pune couple return-
The prime minister’s last meet- not to believe in rumors after a circulating on social media with ing from a Dubai holiday, Ma-
ing with the chief ministers was spate of messages flooded social my photo is a false one. Crimi- harashtra surpassed one lakh
on May 12. media sites speculating that a to- nal action will be taken against Covid-19 cases when it added
The country reported 10,956 tal lockdown would be enforced people who circulate the false 3,493 fresh cases on Friday. With
new coronavirus cases and 396 in Maharashtra due to the rising message.” 40,698 cases reported till Friday,
deaths on Friday. This is the number of novel coronavirus Meanwhile, the Delhi gov- Continued at next page... >>
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JUNE 12, 2020 | BIG STORY | The Indian Eye 5
Tamil Nadu is a distant second. the toll was exactly 90 on Friday,
If Maharashtra were a country, it was 97 on each of the preced-
a total of 1,01,141 cases would ing two days. The city’s toll now
have placed it on the 17th posi- stands at 2,044, accounting for
tion on the global Covid meter, 55% of deaths in Maharashtra.
ahead of nations like Canada State health minister
and China. It took the state 77 Rajesh Tope claimed that the
days to reach its first 50,000 cases lockdown has helped the state
since the first case was reported to contain the virus spread and
on March 9. The second 50,000 given it time to set up addition-
cases, however, have come at a al healthcare facilities. “If we
worrying pace—just 19 days. see cases from countries like
In 12 days of June alone, the the USA and other European
state has added 30,000 cases to countries, we are not that bad.
its tally. With 127 deaths added Also, we have only 49,000-odd
on Friday, the state’s overall toll Region itself accounts for 75% 16,443 and 11,281 respectively, active cases in the state. The re-
stood at 3,717, placing its death of the disease burden in the are also major contributors to covery rate in many districts is
count, too, above that of several state. Mumbai, which remains the state tally. as high as 70%,” Tope said.
countries. India’s worst-hit city with 55,451 On Friday, Mumbai reached Within Mumbai, there have
While Maharashtra accounts cases (it added 1,366 cases on another grim milestone by cross- been some silver linings. Even
for more than a third of the Friday), is responsible for 55% ing 2,000 deaths. For the third though Dharavi has crossed 2,000
country’s coronavirus case bur- of the state’s incidence. Thane day in a row, the city added at cases, there has been a steady de-
den, the Mumbai Metropolitan and Pune, with a caseload of least 90 deaths to its tally; while cline there in cases and deaths.
Amid pAndemiC, nepAl gives indiA A new heAdAChe
epal’s Parliament on tegically crucial road connect-
Saturday unanimous- ing the Lipulekh pass with
Nly voted to amend the Dharchula in Uttarakhand on
Constitution to update the May 8.
country’s new political map, Nepal reacted sharply to
laying claim over the strate- the inauguration of the road
gically key areas of Lipulekh, claiming that it passed through
Kalapani and Limpiyadhura Nepalese territory. India re-
along the border with India. jected the claim asserting that
Major opposition parties in- the road lies completely within
cluding Nepali Congress (NC), its territory. Nepal last month
Rastriya Janata Party-Nepal released the revised politi-
(RJP-N) and Rastriya Pra- cal and administrative map of
jatantra Party (RPP) voted in the country laying claim over
favor of the government bill to the strategically key areas. In-
amend Schedule 3 of the Con- dia has been maintaining that
stitution to update the national these three areas belonged to it.
emblem by incorporating the India sternly asked Nepal
new controversial map. not to resort to any “artificial
Two-thirds majority of the enlargement” of territorial
275-member lower house was Diplomats and experts, man said. claims after Kathmandu re-
required to pass the bill. The however, questioned the gov- “We have noted that the leased the new map. Prime
bill will now be sent to the Na- ernment’s move, asking why the House of Representatives of Minister K P Sharma Oli earli-
tional Assembly (NA) where task force was formed when the Nepal has passed a constitution er this month said that his gov-
it will undergo a similar pro- map has already been released amendment bill for changing ernment will seek a solution
cess. The NA will have to give and approved by the Cabinet. the map of Nepal to include to the Kalapani issue through
lawmakers 72 hours to move “This artificial enlargement of parts of Indian territory. We diplomatic efforts and dia-
amendments against the bill’s claims is not based on historical have already made our position logue on the basis of historical
provisions, if any. After the fact or evidence and is not ten- clear on this matter,” said Anu- facts and documents. “We will
National Assembly passes the able. It is also violative of our rag Srivastava. get back the land occupied by
bill, it will be submitted to the current understanding to hold The ties between India and India through holding a dia-
President for authentication, talks on outstanding boundary Nepal came under strain after logue,” Oli said while respond-
after which the bill will be in- issues,” Anurag Srivastava, In- defense minister Rajnath Singh ing to questions in Parliament
corporated in the Constitution. dian foreign ministry spokes- inaugurated a 80-km-long stra- on Wednesday.
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6 The Indian Eye | NATION | JUNE 12, 2020
Govt allows entry to some foreigners
oCi cardholders can travel to india on account of family emergencies
Our BureAu an Mission and post concerned.
Such foreign nationals will not
New Delhi be permitted to travel to India
he government on Fri- on the strength of any electronic
day allowed certain cat- visa obtained earlier.
Tegories of foreigners, Consequently, the visa re-
including Overseas Citizen of strictions imposed by the MHA
India (OCI) cardholders, to en- on April 17 and May 5 would not
ter India amid restrictions on apply to the above mentioned of
the entry of people from abroad foreign nationals.
due to the COVID-19 pandem- Similarly travel restrictions
ic, officials said. Among those imposed on May 7 would not ap-
allowed entry into India are ply to any aircraft, or any other
married couples one of whom vehicle by which the above men-
is an OCI cardholder and an- tioned categories of foreign na-
other Indian national, and stu- tionals including OCI cardhold-
dents who are OCI cardholders Foreign nationals who are The OCI cardholders who ers may travel to India.
and whose at least one parent single parents of minor children wish to come to India on account International arrivals to In-
is Indian or OCI cardholder. holding Indian passports or OCI of family emergencies like criti- dia was banned with effect from
The Ministry of Home Af- cards, students who are foreign cal medical conditions of imme- March 25 when the first phase
fairs (MHA) has allowed cer- nationals where at least one of diate family members or death of nationwide lockdown was an-
tain categories of foreigners, their parents is an Indian citizen were allowed to visit India. How- nounced. The government on
including OCI cardholders and or an OCI cardholder were al- ever, these foreign nationals will May 7 had launched a special
minors who hold OCI cards lowed to visit India. Dependent have to obtain a fresh visa of ap- operation under the name of
and whose parents are Indian family members of foreign dip- propriate category from the In- Vande Bharat Mission for evacu-
nationals. Foreigners were re- lomats and official and service dian Missions and posts abroad. ation of stranded Indians in for-
stricted from visiting India ever passport holding service staff Foreign nationals holding a eign nations through air and sea.
since the nationwide lockdown accredited to foreign diplomatic valid long term multiple entry Subsequently, the government
was announced by Prime Minis- missions, consular offices or ac- visa of appropriate category is- had allowed Overseas Citizen
ter Narendra Modi on March 24 credited international organisa- sued by the Indian missions and of India (OCI) cardholders who
to check the spread of the novel tions in India can now come to posts abroad shall have to get the wish to come to India on account
coronavirus. India. visa re-validated from the Indi- of family emergencies.
delhi government hAs fAiled: BJp
iting the Supreme ernment, he said.
Court’s sharp comments “Politicians who are in pow-
Con the Delhi govern- er in Delhi should get out to un-
ment’s handling of COVID-19 derstand people’s concerns, and
cases, the BJP on Friday said they should not confine them-
the national capital’s “truth” is selves to press conferences and
out and chief minister Arvind publicity for politics,” he added.
Kejriwal has been a “failure”. During the hearing of the
Earlier in the day, the Su- suo moto writ petition, the Su-
preme Court termed as “horrif- preme Court said hospitals in
ic” the state of affairs in Delhi Delhi are not giving due care to
hospitals, with dead bodies be- keeping bodies and not even in-
ing stacked next to COVID-19 ment will have to think hard Speaking to reporters later, forming family members about
patients. It sought responses about the court’s observations. It Patra said the central govern- deaths. As a result, the patients’
from the Centre and different should leave politics and publici- ment fully stands with the people family members are unable to
states as it took suo moto (on ty aside and work on the ground. of Delhi and will lend any sup- attend their last rites.
its own) cognisance of the treat- “The Supreme Court has react- port sought by the Aam Aadmi The top court has titled the
ment being meted out to pa- ed strongly to Arvind Kejriwal’s Party (AAP) government. The case as “Proper Treatment of
tients and the handling of bodies. failure. Delhi’s truth is out in number of COVID tests should COVID-19 Patients and Digni-
BJP spokesperson Sambit front of us. Kejriwal is a failure,” be increased and the dead be ac- fied Handling of Dead Bodies
Parta said the Delhi govern- he said in a tweet. corded dignity by the Delhi gov- in Hospitals etc.”
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JUNE 12, 2020 7
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8 The Indian Eye | NATION | JUNE 12, 2020
temple towns suffer as pilgrimages are called off
S GOpAl puri last week convened a high-lev-
Dharamshala el meeting to explore ways to
unlock the state where tourism
imachal Pradesh, the is one of the biggest sources of
north Indian state is economic activity. The industry
Hthe center of Bud- leaders present at the meeting,
dhist and Hindu pilgrimage for however, conveyed their unan-
the people across the globe. imous decision to remain shut.
COVID19 has dumped the The state government has
pilgrimage season and temple allowed the hotel industry to
towns are witnessing the worst start bookings, but with restric-
ever phase since independence tions on entertaining non-resi-
of India. The temples and mon- dent tourists from other states
asteries were never closed in and abroad. Locals or those
history for such a long period. travelling for official meetings,
Not even at the time of India business tie-ups and emergen-
– Pakistan partition or during shrine in Himachal. of the region till lockdown cies are the only ones allowed
India – China war. This north Indian state has announcement” said District to book rooms. The restaurants
Apart from massive busi- five major shrines. Monaster- Magistrate Rakesh Kumar Pra- can’t serve food but are allowed
ness, the temple towns gener- ies of senior Buddhist monks japati who looks after the af- ‘carry home’ service.
ate employment to the destitute are also located in this town. fairs of shrines in this state of The hoteliers in the state
and illiterate people also who The exile seat of Dalai Lama is India. Till the filling of this re- capital, tribal areas and other
cannot be employed by govern- located in Dharamshala (Mc- port temples and monasteries parts of the state have reject-
ment or private agencies in the leodganj) area of this state. were still closed, despite other ed the state government’s pro-
country. They get employment Government had ordered markets being thrown open for posed “quarantine tourism”
in the form of roadside vendors closure of these monasteries the public. Temples and mon- to ramp up the tourism sector
selling tea, flowers or other var- and temples without consider- asteries of Himachal have do- badly hit by the lockdown since
ious kinds of products. ing the fate of the poorest of nated above 10 crore rupees March 20.The Shimla Hotel
“We are not opening shops poor people like beggars and to the government to combat and Restaurant Association
despite the government hav- road side vendors who have no coronavirus. said “no” to the government’s
ing permitted open markets. access to banks or internet. Pil- Meanwhile, the hotel indus- quarantine tourism, allowing
There is no use, we don’t get grimage season used to be on try has decided to keep out of the outsiders to stay in hotels
local customers. Only pilgrims, peak from March end to the business until at least Septem- for 14-day long quarantine.
devotees used to come to our beginning of July month till the ber, given that the inter-state The Lahaul and Spiti Hoteliers’
shops” said Sonia Sharma, beginning of the rainy season. borders, the principal gate- Association, along with other
who is a widow having a single Lockdown was announced way of mobility to Himachal, public bodies and panchayats
daughter pursuing education in on March 21. are still closed for tourists and in the tribal belt, have already
Chandigarh. She runs a shop “Nearly one lakh people outsiders. Himachal Tourism locked the valley for outsiders,
of souvenirs near Brajeshwari have arrived in various shrines Secretary Devesh Kumar had including tourists.
Beginning of the erA of virtuAl prAyer Ceremonies
OVID19 has made temple au- ilies do this ritual at home by imagining
thorities learn the way to orga- nine girls. They also asked people to feed
Cnize virtual prayers and spiritual cows nearby. But the majority of the peo-
ceremonies. Almost every temple took ple opted for video calls to worship girls.
to their social media platforms to hold The websites offering this service have
virtual prayers. advertised themselves from various medi-
Navaratris, the nine auspicious days ums. Fee charged by these sites was 1100
to appease goddess, have been severely rupees. “Girls will be worshiped on your
affected by global scare of COVID19. behalf by offering apples, oranges, pack-
It concluded during the first week of ets of salted snacks and biscuits. Meals
April this year. Navaratris concludes by couldn’t take place. Few websites offered and a packet of ‘parhsad’ will also be
the ritual of ‘Kanya Pujan’ held by wor- this service online. Hindu families opted there” the online sites mentioned.
shiping nine young girls as nine forms of for video calls and other online platforms Meanwhile, the Tibetan Spiritual lead-
Goddess Durga. for this ritual. er Dalai Lama also hosted online teach-
But due to lock-down the same Temple priests requested Hindu fam- ings for the devotees across the globe.
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The Indian Eye
JUNE 12, 2020 9
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10 The Indian Eye | EYE on INDIA | JUNE 12, 2020
INDIATALKS
ChinA Border rAJAsthAn AssemBly
SituAtiOn under COntrOl, GehlOt GOvt iS tAppinG
SAyS ArMy Chief phOneS, AlleGeS Oppn
he “situation along our (India and China) have will be
borders with China is un- set to rest,” the general added.
Tder control”, Army Chief Tensions between India and eputy Leader of Op- ple sitting in the government
General MM Naravane said Sat- China escalated in early May position in Rajasthan have any evidence, they should
urday morning, adding that a se- after reports of skirmishes in Dassembly Rajendra Ra- disclose it,” Mr Rathore said.
ries of meetings between senior eastern Ladakh’s Pangong Lake thore alleged that the state gov- Rajasthan Chief Minis-
military commanders from both region. There were also reports ernment is tapping the phone ter Ashok Gehlot on Friday
sides had resulted in “a lot of dis- of Chinese soldiers patrolling calls of opposition members un- had said a complaint has been
engagement” and that “all per- the lake on motorboats and in- der the garb of a probe into the lodged with the SOG for probe
ceived differences that we (India cursion by Chinese choppers. alleged poaching of MLAs. The into cash transfers for poach-
and China) have will be set to Satellite images last month also Congress in Rajasthan has com- ing MLAs. He had said a huge
rest”. “I would like to assure ev- appeared to show the presence plained about “attempts to de- amount of cash has been trans-
eryone that the entire situation of four Chinese Air Force fighter stabilise the government” and ferred to Jaipur and attempts
along our borders with China is jets at an airport located around alleged that its MLAs and in- were being made to poach the
under control. We’re having a 200 km from Pangong Lake. dependent lawmakers support- Congress MLAs ahead of the
series of talks which started with India, which said the Chinese ing its government are being Rajya Sabha elections.
Corps Commander level and has military was hindering normal offered inducements to switch The poll for Upper House
been followed up with meetings patrolling by its troops along the sides to the BJP. for three seats in the state is due
at local levels between com- Line of Actual Control (LAC) in “By ordering an investiga- on June 19.
manders of equivalent ranks,” Ladakh and Sikkim, requested tion by the Anti-Corruption Bu- Rathore said the Congress
General Naravane said. high-level talks between senior reau (ACB) and special opera- government in the state is bat-
“As a result, a lot of disen- military commanders to defuse tions group (SOG), the (Ashok) tling with internal conflict right
gagement has taken place and the situation. The first round was Gehlot government is tapping after it came into power in the
we are hopeful that through the held on June 6 at the Border Per- phone calls of the opposition state. He said its high command
continued dialogue we’re having, sonnel Meeting Point in Maldo members. I think there is no had to struggle a lot to make a
all perceived differences that we on the Chinese side of the LAC. need to be worried. If the peo- chief minister.
Adhir Chowdhury
MOdi livinG in virtuAl wOrld, SAyS COnGreSS leAder
eader of the Congress across the country. Chowdhury tally crossed the three-lakh alarming spike of Corona in-
in the Lok Sabha, Adhir also asked Prime Minister Nar- mark with over 10,000 new virus fection in the country, heading
LRanjan Chowdhury, on endra Modi to come down from cases. “Like imposition of lock towards catching the 1st rank in
Friday blamed the Centre’s the “virtual to actual India” to down, exiting strategy was also the world. @narendramodi Ji
“abrupt and unprofessional” have a feel of the crisis. taken in an abrupt and unpro- should come down from virtu-
lockdown exit strategy for the His comments came on a fessional manner, fraught with al to actual India,” Chowdhury
spike in coronavirus numbers day the country’s COVID-19 danger. Thus resulting into the tweeted.
www.TheIndianEYE .us
JUNE 12, 2020 | EYE on INDIA | The Indian Eye 11
Covid-19 rAilwAy proteCtion
MAn dreSSeS AS yAMrAj ‘CAptAin Arjun’ rOBOt
tO rAiSe AwAreneSS On duty
ABOut COvid-19
local artist dressed up
as Yamraj and visited
A various markets of Ud-
hampur city on Friday to create
awareness about COVID-19.
He urged people to observe
social distancing, wear masks,
and not come out of their hous-
es unnecessarily stating that he
will take them along if they do
not follow these norms.
Deepak Kumar, the man
dressed as Yamraj said, “It’s
your duty as well to understand
that social distancing is import-
ant. People should wear their am tired now, hence I thought ailway Protection sible infection and also its sur-
masks.” of coming here and tell peo- Force, Pune on Friday veillance will provide enhanced
“PM Modi has been stat- ple to stay at home and not Rlaunched ‘’CAPTAIN security”.
ing the same thing for your gather in market areas,” Ku- ARJUN’’, a robot to screen pas- Captain Arjun is equipped
safety only. I am Yamraj and I mar said. sengers while they board trains, with a motion sensor, one PTZ
said Central Railways. Robotic camera (Pan, Tilt, Zoom Cam-
up deAths ‘’CAPTAIN ARJUN’’ (Always era), and one Dome Camera.
be Responsible and Just Use to The Cameras use Artificial In-
priyAnkA GAndhi BlAMeS be Nice) has been launched to telligence algorithms to track
intensify the screening and sur- suspicious activity and antisocial
yOGi GOvt veillance. activity, has an inbuilt siren, mo-
This Robot was launched tion-activated spotlight H-264
ongress leader Priyanka to screen passengers while they Processor, there is also in-built
Gandhi Vadra on Sat- board trains and keep a watch internal storage for recording in
Curday criticised Uttar on anti-social elements. case there is a network failure.
Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi The Robotic Captain Arujn Captain Arjun does ther-
Adityanath over the alleged was launched online on Friday mal screening and records the
suicide of four farmers and la- evening. On this occasion, San- temperature in a digital display
bourers in state’s Bundelkhand jeev Mittal, General Manager panel with a response time of
region in the last one week. appreciated the innovation by 0.5 seconds and if the tempera-
“In Bundelkhand, four farmers the Railway Protection Force ture is higher than the reference
and labourers have committed and said “The Robotic Captain range, it sounds an abnormal
suicide in the last one week. Arjun will protect the passen- automatic alarm with a count-
This includes migrant labour- gers and the staff from any pos- ing capacity of 999.
ers, who returned from outside.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister
and officials sitting in Lucknow allow people to raise their voic-
are talking daily about getting es even in the face of scams and FOR COMMUNITY
the mapping done,” Priyanka corruption.
Gandhi Vadra tweeted along “I got to know this morn- NEWS & EVENTS
with few media reports. ing that the topper of the Ut-
“Sadly, these farmers and tar Pradesh assistant teachers’ West Coast- Texas and South California
migrant labourers do not have a recruitment exam was arrest-
place in their map,” she added. ed. Some candidates were also Please Call or Email :
A few days ago, the Con- arrested yesterday. If this exam
gress leader had slammed the was conducted fairly, why are SEEMA GOVIL : 512 762 7387
Uttar Pradesh government over people being arrested?” Priyan- [email protected]
teachers’ recruitment in the ka Gandhi asked in a live video
state and claimed that it doesn’t on social media.
www.TheIndianEYE .us
North The Indian Eye
AmERIcANnewsline
12 JUNE 12, 2020
end of an era:
rAmesh pAtel pAsses AwAy
Chairman of the FIA in Tri-State, he was one of the pillars of Indian community
and inspirer of the India Day Parade
Our BureAu
New Jersey
rominent community
leader Ramesh Patel,
PChairman of the Feder-
ation of Indian Associations
(FIA) of New York, New Jersey
and Connecticut passed away
on June 6th at Hackensack
Medical Center in New Jersey.
He was under treatment for
Covid-10 complications for over
two months. Patel, 78, is sur-
vived by his wife Sucheta, son
Suvas and daughters Manisha
and Kunjal.
Along with his exten-
sive community service
as a unique leader, patel
worked in the forensic in-
vestigation division of the
new york police depart-
ment and was honored
with the prestigious ellis
island medal of honor in
2013.
Patel also served as Presi-
dent of the National Federa-
tion of Indian American Asso-
ciations (NFIA) from 1992 to
1996 and as its Chairman from
1996 to 1998. While serving as
President of FIA (1988-1990),
Patel assisted in the NFIA orga-
nized First Global Convention
of People of Indian Origin, held formed. death of Patel. “Very sad to of Federation of Indian Asso-
in New York in 1989, where India’s Ambassador to the learn about the passing away ciations (FIA), after 2-month
Global Organization of People US, Taranjit Singh Sandhu ex- of Ramesh Patel, the Found- long fight against COVID-19. A
of Indian Origin (GOPIO) was pressed condolences on the er Member and Chairperson Continued at next page... >>
www.TheIndianEYE .us
JUNE 12, 2020 | NORTH AmERIcAN Newsline | The Indian Eye 13
highly respected Indian Amer- friend who always picked up his
ican Community leader, we phone, showed up to our fami-
will miss him very much. RIP!” ly’s special events, and pushed
Sandhu tweeted. me forward in many aspects of
my life,” said Bipin Patel, For-
india’s Consul gener- mer President FIA.
In his message, Dr Sudhir
al in new york sandeep Parikh, former President FIA
Chakravorty tweeted that said: “We are together with
Patel family at this challenging
patel’s death is a “big loss time. We pray for strength to
to the indian American Patel family and our prayers for
the liberation of Ramesh Bhai.”
community. A pioneer who “He was very positive and
brought together the Com- keep the flag high. Energetic ebration of FIA this year. We always YES personality. Along
and enigmatic, a true leader, promise to make next year as a with Mono Sen of Jersey City,
munity & worked on many he deserved to see the Golden golden jubilee mega celebration we demonstrated against the
issues. i particularly value Jubilee and celebrate. But God including paying Shradhanja- Dot Buster issue,” said Prabir
had his plans. Let us keep the li to Ramesh Bhai Patel,” said Roy, former President FIA.
his strong support to the mission going and keep build- Anil Bansal, current President “Ramesh Bhai was a good
Consulate,” Chakravorty ing through larger participa- of FIA. family man, good husband,
Youngest and two time Pres- good father, good grandfather,
tion from the community and
tweeted. youngsters. That will make him ident of FIA, Ankur Vaidya in was son of a well cultured fami-
happy wherever he is. God bless whom Ramesh had vested the ly,” said Anand Patel, FIA, Past
Fondly known as ‘Kaka’ all. Jai Hind.” said Sunil Hali, hopes for FIA future in his con- President 2016.
within the community, Patel publisher dolence message said,“Kaka “In the last 40 years, he
had held various positions in Many community leaders was indeed a man of the masses served our Diaspora communi-
the FIA executive committee expressed shock at his demise. who worked very hard, did right ty selflessly in various capacities
including president of the orga- Yash Paul Soi, Vice-Chairman, for his family to the best of his starting as the FIA President in
nization from 1988 to 1990. He Board of Trustees, FIA, found- ability and to the best of what he 1988 and later as its Chairman
had been instrumental in estab- er and probably the most trust- knew how to, without caring for for over two decades,” said Dr.
lishing and guiding a number of ed friend of Ramesh Patel said: those who judged him,”. Thomas Abraham of GOPIO.
events that promote the culture “FIA has been in the upfront In his message, Jagdish Pa- Dr. Parveen Chopra, Pres-
and heritage of India in the US, on all major Humanitarian is- tel, Trustee and Past President ident of FIA in 1987, remem-
including FIA’s flagship event - sues. We promise you, Ramesh of FIA said: “As a close family bered Ramesh Patel as a “gem
the India Day Parade organized Bhai, that with your spiritual friend for the past 35 years, I of a leader in Gujarati commu-
every year to mark India’s Inde- guidance, we will continue to am proud that he treated me as nity” who would discover com-
pendence Day in August in New enhance the rich traditions, a younger brother. I will dearly mon roots with other Gujaratis,
York. culture and values of Mother miss his ideas & leadership, but no matter which route they had
“Ramesh Patelji has been India.” most of all his friendship.” taken to come to America. “He
the tallest man in our communi- Leading members of the “I’ve had the honor of know- devoted his life and made it a
ty that I have known in the past community remembered the ing Rameshbhai for over 20 mission to take India Day Pa-
two decades since I got involved. good work done by Ramesh years and can say that he was rade to the meteoric heights by
I loved his passion for Indian the Patel. “He was so excited about not only a mentor to many of making it the largest gathering of
voice and for the community to the golden Jubilee grand cel- us in FIA, but he was a good Indians outside India,” he said.
www.TheIndianEYE .us
14 The Indian Eye | NORTH AmERIcAN Newsline | JUNE 12, 2020
End of an Era: rAmesh BhAi pAtel
amesh Patel was a great hus- amesh Patel was a great hus-
band, father, grandfather and band, father, grandfather and
Rgreat friend to me. He was a Rgreat friend to me. He was a dy-
dynamic and very outspoken leader. I namic and very outspoken leader. I used
used to call him “Iron man Patel”. to call him “Iron man Patel”. We were
friends and brothers for more than 50
we were friends and brothers for years and together wanted to promote
the rich culture, traditions and values of
more than 50 years and togeth- Mother India. Therefore, through the
er wanted to promote the rich signature event of the world-famous
New York City India Day Parade, the
culture, traditions and values of mother india. Federation of Indian Associations celebrated the Independence
Day of India- The largest Celebration outside of India. FIA has
Therefore, through the signature event of the world-famous beeRamesh Bhai’s passing away leaves behind many of us whom he
New York City India Day Parade, the Federation of Indian As- had been spending so much time with him. He had been grooming
sociations celebrated the Independence Day of India- The largest us for the leadership role in carrying out the duties of FIA. He was
Celebration outside of India. FIA has been in the upfront on other kind, supportive and strong at the same time. Always staying on
Humanitarian issues including Simpson Mazoli Immigration Bill, top of what was needed to be done. The void is too big to be filled.
the DOT Buster Issue in New Jersey, Denying Awacs Planes by Our most sincere condolences to the family and prayers for peace.
USA to Pakistan and other humanitarian Issues. He was so excited about the golden Jubilee grand celebration
We promise you Ramesh Bhai that with your spiritual guid- of FIA this year. The parade we were planning was going to have
ance, we will continue to enhance the rich traditions, culture and many new items. Finishing with a Grand Gala at a very fancy
values of Mother India. We at FIA will fulfill your dreams in a place. But due to Corona, we have had to postpone it to next
dignified manner. year. We at the executive team, promise to make next year as a
golden jubilee mega celebration including paying Shradhanjali to
yash pal Soi, Ramesh Bhai Patel.
vice-Chairman,
Board of trustees, fiA(tri-state) Anil Bansal,
current president fiA(tri-state), 2020
“he mAde the world A Better plACe, rom his modest beginnings, Ra-
mesh Patel‘s overwhelming lead-
he wAs A true leAder” Fership has helped raise FIA’s
profile from its grassroots origins to its
amesh Patel was a pillar of current powerhouse standing in the In-
strength in our Indian com-
Rmunity. He made the world dian community of the Tri-State area of
a better place. He was the definition NY, NJ & CT.
of a true leader -- someone who com-
manded a room, motivated others to his long-lasting legacy & enor-
take action, inspired the younger gen- mous contribution has not only
eration, and had a vision of creating a
strong sense of community. kept treasured indian values alive but has also kept
I’ve had the honor of knowing Ra-
meshbhai for over 20 years and can india’s rich culture and heritage relevant for future in-
say that he was not only a mentor to many of us in FIA, but he dian-American generations to come.
was a good friend who always picked up his phone, showed up
to our family’s special events, and pushed me forward in many As a close family friend for the past 35 years, I am proud that he
aspects of my life. The loss of Rameshbhai has left a void in our has treated me as a younger brother.
hearts and in our community. We will miss him forever. May I will dearly miss his ideas & leadership, but most of all his
his soul rest in the peace that he so richly deserves. friendship.
Bipin patel, jagdish patel,
former president fiA former president fiA(tri-state)
www.TheIndianEYE .us
JUNE 12, 2020 | NORTH AmERIcAN Newsline | The Indian Eye 15
Community leAders rememBer And pAy
triButes to rAmesh pAtel
“we Are Committed to CArry on “enCourAging others CAme nAturAlly
the torCh lit By you” to him, As did Community serviCe”
e had a great loss of our life
as our dear RAMESH BHAI am at a loss of words to express my feelings about Ramesh
Wleft us very soon. We never Kaka. In the close to a decade of time spent under his care
imagined this. Ramesh Bhai was a good I and guidance, I have so many memories, so many anecdotes.
I remember the times I would argue with him to try out new
family man, good husband, good father, avenues for FIA. Kaka, on the other hand, would calmly listen
good grandfather, was son of a well cul- to me, and with his signature smile, tell me that my time would
tured family. come too, and that it would come sooner that I’d know.
I don’t know what I can portray him
as. A leader. A patriot of mother land. Now, as I look back, I feel lost. It won’t be an exaggeration
A pakka Bhartiya. A good mentor, who to say that I am still trying to comprehend this untimely episode.
He played the role of a fierce shield who protected and
always gave credit to others, good moti-
vator... elder brother. He was a Purshottam to me. dodged maligned interferences and jealousy-filled intrusions,
I even feel he was an ambassador of our motherland. A person while the doers did their tasks and played their roles. He lived by
from a business family, he dedicated his life to FIA, Mother India the theory of delivery and of the saying, “ideas are dime a dozen,
and to create that spirit in millions of Indians by involving them in implementation is priceless.”
charitable work and spirit you can’t compare. Encouraging others came naturally to him, as did community
Ramesh Bhai, you will be remembered by me and by so many service, which was his prized jewel which he was always proud to
people. We will definitely miss you but we are committed to carry showcase.
on the torch lit by you, FIA. With you in our mind, we will try keep A very clean and transparent hearted man, a people’s person
you dream alive, make you proud and happy where ever you are. who loved to interact with children including my own. Kaka was
indeed a man of the masses who worked very hard, did right by
Anand patel his family to the best of his ability and to the best of what he
fiA, past president 2016 knew how to, without caring for those who judged him. His goal
was to do right by his family and the community, which he did at
“he served our Community the very end.
selflessly for 40 yeArs” Ankur vaidya
assing away of our friend and
community leader Ramesh Pa- y very good friend Ramesh
Ptel is a great loss for the Indian Patel is not with us anymore.
American community. In the last 40 MI saw him on Facetime few
years, he served our Diaspora com- hours before this sad news came. He
munity selflessly in various capacities was friend of the whole Indian Amer-
starting as the FIA President in 1988 ican community, chairman for life of
and later as its Chairman for over two Federation of Indian Association NY/
decades. He also served as President of NJ/CT, passionate and patriotic.
the National Federation of Indian As- He was born on 20th April 1942. His
sociations (NFIA) from 1992 to ‘96. I birth year coincides with ‘Quit India
have had close working relations with him through these organi- Movement’. His love and dedication for
zation. In fact, in 1989, when the NFIA organized the First Global Bharat guided him to unite community under the banner of FIA.
Convention of People of Indian Origin in New York city, he was It is a personal loss, Ramesh Patel left us for the heavenly abode
a host and helped in organizing the convention where GOPIO on 6th June 2020, this is another great loss for the community due
was formed. His efforts and campaigns have helped to get support to Coronavirus.
from many Congressional Representatives and Senators for better A legendary father figure is not with us anymore but his spir-
US-India relations. There are only very few community leaders in it will continue to guide us. We are together with Patel family at
the USA who have over forty years of continuous community ser- this challenging time. We pray for strength to Patel family and our
vice and Ramesh has been one of them. We will miss him in our prayers for the liberation of Ramesh Bhai.
community campaigns and service activities as well as promoting Ramesh Bhai, you will be deeply missed. Deepest condolence
India’s causes. for all friends and family members from me.
dr. thomas Abraham
Chairman, Global Organization of people of indian Origin dr Sudhir parikh,
(GOpiO) international. former president fiA(tri-state)
www.TheIndianEYE .us
16 The Indian Eye | NORTH AmERIcAN Newsline | JUNE 12, 2020
“ChAlu rAkh, prABir… “deep in his soul And Blood,
do not hAng the phone” he hAd pAssion for the Community”
hese words are still ringing in
my ears. He always used to in-
Ttroduce me as a twin tower of
FIA to everyone.
In the early 70’s, all Indian activi-
ties, be cultural or political we used to
get together and discuss at the foot-
steps of Earl Hall, Columbia Univer-
sity. FIA was not born at that time.
Me, Himangshu, Thomas Abra-
ham and a few others from Indian
Center of CU were discussing to form one Indian Association
where all the Indian State’s organization in Tri-state area can
work together. During that period, I met Ramesh and Suresh-
war P. Singh.
late 70’s fiA was formed. ramesh brought lot of young
people and regional organizations along with him make amesh Patel, deep in his soul and blood, had passion for
community life. He nurtured it, indoctrinated many with
the fiA vibrant. day by day he became very vocal. he Rexciting stories of parade activities and community life that
was very positive and always yes personality. Along acted like a tonic to those who had left behind close relatives in
the country of their birth India and wanted to pay tribute to their
with mono sen of Jersey City, we demonstrated against beloved motherland from whom they had separated voluntarily
while settling down in the richest, most powerful and most dynam-
the dot Buster issue. ic country of their dreams America where they were struggling to
settle down three or four decades ago. Ramesh Patel relished every
People were afraid to come out but he had courage to bring moment of his journey into community life. He spent more time in
the people out. We travelled together to Washington DC many community life than his work life. He talked with emotions about
times to stop AWACS sales to Pakistan. Jointly organized Sena- community activities that overpowered his thoughts. He was a jem
tor Larry Pressler’s meeting with Indian Communities. of a leader in Gujarati community and would discover common
Pressler Amendment Act which triggered action against Pa- roots with other Gujaratis, no matter which route they had taken
kistan as a terrorist-harboring country. Our friendship and ac- to come to America. He devoted his life and made it a mission to
tivities for betterment of India rapidly grew and to facilitate his take India Day Parade to the meteoric heights by making it the
request I had to share my Office space for FIA in Astoria for a largest gathering of Indians outside India. India Day Parade also
long period. attained the status of one of the largest parades in New York City.
FIA cannot do lobbying activities, but from our office we With a heavy heart, we say good bye to Ramesh Patel. Every-
ran lobbying work throughout USA for India. In this effort In- body is going to leave this world one day and leave his or her histo-
der Sing from CA and Swadesh Chatterjee of North Carolina ry behind. To the family Mrs Suchetabhen Patel and children Dr.
joined us. Myself and Ramesh and hard-core members of FIA Suhas, Mrs Gunjal, Mrs Manisha and their families I will say that
used to meet in my office 3 to 4 times a week and communicate their husband and father played a very exceptional role and it was a
with the then Ambassador Siddarth S Ray to engage Congress- life very well spent in the service of Community and humanity that
men and Senators becoming ‘Friends of India’. served many causes over three decades. May his soul Rest in Peace
As a result, India Caucus at Washington DC bloomed. Help- and the community will always remember what he has achieved
ing a Punjabi guy who got shot by a Pakistani man in our pa- for the Indian community in America. It was a history created in
rade, the Latur Earthquake and many more events which I can America to celebrate the values of freedom and liberty for which
write on and on where Ramesh’s contribution was immense. India and her people struggled for centuries, sacrificed many lives
We respected each other. Many a times, I confronted him but to attain democratic way of life so that each person could realize
Ramesh never yelled at me or said no to me. He had a soft corner their own potential, chase their own dreams, follow their own
on me. pursuits and be happy. To that end, Indian Parade in America will
He accomplished a lot but failed to groom a person from the always be a guiding force to us to become good citizens of Amer-
next generation to hold the torch. ica because both democracies share essentially the same common
Now it’s my turn to say: “Hey my twin tower friend Ramesh, goals of peace and prosperity.
phone toh chalu rakh”. My wife Usha joins me in sharing your family’s loss which is also
our loss and everyone else’s loss too.
prabir roy, dr. parveen Chopra
former president fiA president fiA 1987
www.TheIndianEYE .us
The Indian Eye
JUNE 12, 2020 17
Create an Astoria that
works for all of us
Guarantee housing as a human right
Create a health and pension fund for
yellow and black cab drivers
Advocate for street vendor rights
and an end to police harassment
Offer government services in
our languages
Increase South Asian
representation in government
Expand voting rights to all
New York residents
End state and local
cooperation with ICE
Tax the rich to fix the MTA
Enact Single-Payer Healthcare
Vote June 23, 2020
ZohranForAssembly.com/vote
www.TheIndianEYE .us
18 The Indian Eye | NORTH AmERIcAN Newsline | JUNE 12, 2020
hh mahant swami maharaj offers prayers on
the passing of Community leader ramesh patel
Our BureAu in Edison, NJ to receive
New York blessings from Pramukh
H H Mahant Swa- photo).
Swami Maharaj (see
mi
Rameshbhai was a
Maharaj,
spiritual leader
and philanthropist. In
of BAPS Swaminarayan genuine humanitarian
Sanstha, has offered 1993, when an earth-
prayers after learning of quake struck Latur in
the passing of communi- Maharashtra, Ramesh-
ty leader Ramesh Patel. bhai immediately mobi-
Ramesh Patel was the lized the Indian Ameri-
chairman of FIA-NY, can community to help
NJ, CT and organizer of the victims. He worked
the India Day Parade in diligently to garner sup-
Manhattan, NY. port for BAPS Charities
Rameshbhai was a relief work in the Latur
symbol of pride for In- area. He was so con-
dian Americans, work- cerned that he visited La-
ing diligently to connect tur personally to see how
celebrities, media mem- he could help further.
bers, community leaders Rameshbhai Patel receiving Blessing from Pramukh Swami Maharaj in 1994 Rameshbhai’s pass-
and political figures from ing is a tremendous loss
USA as well as India. He for the Indian American
was a visionary commu- community, but his leg-
nity leader, who orga- acy will continue to live
nized many conferences, on. He will be remem-
seminars, exhibitions bered for his vision, ded-
and parades to promote ication and commitment
Indian culture. to the Indian American
Rameshbhai was a diaspora. HH Mahant
close friend and support- Swami Maharaj, the cur-
er of HH Pramukh Swa- rent spiritual leader of
mi Maharaj and BAPS BAPS, has offered deep-
Swaminarayan Sanstha. est condolences and
His deep respect and prayers for his family.
reverence for Pramukh The BAPS Swamina-
Swami Maharaj was rayan Sanstha (BAPS)
well-known, and he was is a worldwide spiritual
very outspoken about his and humanitarian or-
affinity to Swamishri and ganization that is ded-
the work done by BAPS. icated to community
In his first meeting Rameshbhai Patel at Swaminarayan Akshardham on January 26, 2019 service, peace, and har-
with Pramukh Swa- mony. Motivated by
mi Maharaj, Swamish- a police officer in Gaam- Pramukh Swami Ma- tion and devotion that Hindu principles, BAPS
ri asked him about his di. Overwhelmed with haraj’s care for Ramesh- helped strengthen his strives to care for the
native village in India. Swamishri’s sharp mem- bhai was so deep that connection with BAPS. world by caring for soci-
When Rameshbhai ory, Rameshbhai was once, when Swamishri During the initial days eties, families, and indi-
mentioned ‘Gaamdi’ immediately attracted learned of the passing of of the India Day Parade, viduals. Through various
and his uncle’s name to Swamishri and felt a Rameshbhai’s mother, BAPS offered volun- spiritual and humani-
‘Jivabhai’, Pramukh deep connection to him. Swamishri immediately teers to help implement tarian activities, BAPS
Swami Maharaj imme- From then on, Pramukh called him to offer con- the event successfully. In endeavors to develop
diately connected his Swami Maharaj lovingly dolences, blessings and 1994, Rameshbhai was better citizens of tomor-
whole family lineage and referred to him as ‘Ra- prayers. It was Ramesh- also instrumental in or- row with high esteem for
added that his uncle was mesh Gaamdi’. bhai’s sincere dedica- ganizing an FIA seminar their roots and culture.
www.TheIndianEYE .us
The Indian Eye
JUNE 12, 2020 19
www.TheIndianEYE .us
20 The Indian Eye | NORTH AmERIcAN Newsline | JUNE 12, 2020
Biden for president launches ‘AApis
for Biden,’ a Grassroots Movement
Our BureAu
iden for President
launched “AAPIs for
BBiden,” a national net-
work of Asian American and
Pacific Islander supporters
working to rally the community
around Vice President Biden’s
record of accomplishment, and
his vision to heal the damage
done by Donald Trump and to
rebuild the middle class.
AAPIs for Biden will re-
cruit, train, and deploy a grow-
ing movement of Asian Ameri-
cans and Pacific Islanders to run
phone banks, canvasses, com-
munity events, days of action,
and fundraising activities in sup-
port of the campaign. Biden ad-
visor and Olympic figure skater
Michelle Kwan kicked off the
new coalition this afternoon in
Las Vegas, which is home to a
vibrant AAPI community, and
to the all-important Nevada
caucus on February 22.
“The AAPI vote will be de-
cisive in choosing whom Demo-
crats nominate to take on Don-
ald Trump. The future of our
community, our country, and
the values that make us strong
all depends on the movement
that we build together, starting
here, to elect Joe as the next
President of the United States,”
said Michelle Kwan, Director
of Surrogates, Biden for Pres-
ident. “Today is a testament to
Joe’s deep support among AA-
PIs – and it’s just one example
of the many ways in which our
campaign is working to build
a broad, diverse coalition that
reaches every corner of this
country. Joe has fought for us tion with Indian Food and music Diya with family and friends .To- think of a better way for us to cel-
his whole life, and now we’re at the AAPI for Biden Launch day ,we celebrate life’s blessings ebrate than by coming together
going to fight for him.” event . Ajay Jain Bhutoria said — the triumph of knowledge here today for Joe Biden, a man
Ajay Jain Bhutoria, Nation- wished Everyone a Happy Diwa- over ignorance and good over that has spent his life standing
al Finance Committee Member li and said Today, Hindus, Jains, evil and of New Beginnings. So, up to evil and is in this race to
,Biden for President 2020 ad- Sikhs and Buddhists – some of having AAPIs for Biden launch ensure that we defeat evil - or
dressed and delivered the clos- the world’s oldest religions - are today feels particularly right! should I say Donald Trump - in
ing Notes with Diwali Celebra- celebrating Diwali by lighting the Bhutoria further said ,I can’t November 2020 .
www.TheIndianEYE .us
The Indian Eye
JUNE 12, 2020 21
www.TheIndianEYE .us
22 The Indian Eye | NORTH AmERIcAN Newsline | JUNE 12, 2020
Au revoir Ambassador sanjay panda
Our BureAu Nationals who were stuck in In- been very transparent and there The Ambassador also ap-
Fremont, CA dia back to their homes in the are plans to open up more cat- pealed to the wider Indian and
US. The evacuations have so egories for selection. There are Odiya Community in the SF
adio Zindagi was hon- far been seamless. He also high- also going to be an increased Bay area to be more involved
ored to have the Indian lighted the challenges faced by number of flights from San in the community and develop-
RAmbassador & Consul the Embassy owing to the large Francisco International Airport ment work.
General, Sanjay Panda on the number of registrations for the and a total of 21 flights will have As Ambassador Sanjay Pan-
popular Odiya show called Ame evacuations to send people in operated in the second phase da gets ready to move on to his
Odiya hosted by well-known Ra- the US back to India. of this evacuation plan. He also next endeavor in Turkey, it’s
dio Host Archana Panda. This There are currently 40,000 mentioned that there is a strong both a moment of rejoice to
initiative was made possible by applications and selections are possibility that Air India will be celebrate the wonderful work
Kuku Das And Shri Bibek Das based on 4 categories such as able to open up bookings direct- he has done for the Indian com-
who are esteemed members of Medical Emergency, University ly for people wanting to travel. munity in the bay area and also
the community. In his interview, and college students, stranded However, the discretion and one to wish him all the very best
the Consul General threw light Indian tourists and H-1B visa criteria for selecting travelers to for the future. The Ambassador
on the current evacuations that holders whose visas are expir- India at this point of time is not and his joie de vivra personality
were made to bring 1,600 US ing. So far, the selections have completely known. will truly be missed!
Ajay Jain Bhutoria elected as Biden delegate for the California
district 17th national Convention district-level Caucus
Our BureAu Democratic Party National site translated into Asian Amer- on many issues, including free
California Convention to vote Biden as of- ican languages. Ajay is also on community college initiative
ficial Nominee for President for Asian American Pacific Islander around the country. Ajay Bhu-
ndo-American Ajay Jain Democratic Party in Milwaukee Leadership Council for Biden, toria worked closely with VP
Bhutoria has been elected Wisconsin this August. working on bringing together Biden and Dr Biden and Oak-
Ias Biden Delegate for the Ajay Bhutoria is on National the Asian Americans to vote for land College Promise Program
California District 17th Nation- Finance Committee for Biden Biden, primarly South Asians to to bring free community college
al Convention District-Level is a prominent national Bun- vote for Biden in 2020 General for African American communi-
Caucus. The Election was held dler for Democratic party and Elections. Ajay Bhutoria worked ty in Oakland.
through online Ballot. All reg- Presidential Candidates. Ajay on National Finance committee Ajay is an Author of Book
istered Democrats of district has been instrumental in bring- for Hillary Clintons election in -100 Life Management tools for
CA 17th were eligible to partic- ing together the issues of Asian 2016, raising between half-1 mil- a Happy life and a Tech Entre-
ipate in voting by requesting an Americans to the forefront. lion $ for Hillary’s election. preneur living in Silicon Valley
online ballot. Ajay is working with DNC to Ajay Bhutoria worked with with his wife Vinita and Kids Raj
Ajay Bhutoria goes to the have the Democratic Party web- Obama-Biden Administration and Yash.
www.TheIndianEYE .us
JUNE 12, 2020 | NORTH AmERIcAN Newsline | The Indian Eye 23
iACf initiates a peaceful protest in
support of #Blacklivesmatter
Our BureAu but unfortunately a lot of pro-
testers have resorted to looting
San Francisco thus encouraging more police
ndo-American Community violence. The protest in the City
Federation (IACF) initiat- of Fremont had nearly 400 peo-
Ied a peaceful protest, which ple who walked from Washing-
was very quickly reciprocated ton High School all the way to
and led by Association of In- the Fremont police headquar-
do-Americans (AIA), BATA ( ters.
Bay Area Telugu Assn), TANA The Mayor and some com-
(Telugu Association of North munity leaders spoke in front
America ) and many other In- of the police station and all of
do-American community mem- them echoed the same message
bers including City council of condemning the police offi-
members Raj Salwan, Vijaya cers involved in the killing and
Aasuri of AIA, Jairam Komati address racism issues deep root-
of BATA and former Planning ed in this society. Jeevan Zutshi,
Commissioner Yogi Chugh. founder of the Indo-American
The Indo-American pro- Community Federation (IACF)
testers joined with other main- was part of the protest on Thurs-
stream group including students day in Fremont, California, and
who were demonstrating against said, “he came to this country 48
the death of 46-year-old George years ago, but had not seen what
Floyd, an African-American we have been witnessing right
man, who died on May 25 after now. So many times, so many
white police officer killed him things have happened but this
mercilessly in Minneapolis. The is on such a massive scale across
incident has brought the entire the nation.
country to stand together with We have this community
Black Lives Matter. which has been historically dis- racism and police violence are Everyone else was united in
It has sparked protests never criminated as it is very evident ever present. There has to be a saying that the root cause of rac-
seen before of this magnitude that the stress and trauma of major change in the policy.” ism must be addressed.
www.TheIndianEYE .us
24 The Indian Eye | NORTH AmERIcAN Newsline | JUNE 12, 2020
meet the teAm of dArd-e-dil 2020
Our BureAu Narang who plays the Assistant
Director in the film, manages
New York the famous dance school Bol-
ARD-E-DIL 2020 is a lywood Axion, graciously ac-
film opens on a film set cepted to choreograph the song
Dwhere the film crew is through Zoom sessions. Mihir
arduously prepping to shoot a Beg, born and brought up in the
dramatic scene between the two US is a professional sound edi-
lead actors. When the director tor, American singer, and a mu-
calls for action, Binod strums sician. The youngest member of
his guitar in a vain hope that the this film project had seen some
familiar tune would take him of Irrfan’s work, but in no time,
back in time. Enters Teeshay, not only did he familiarize him-
who is intrigued by the same self with Rishi Kapoor’s Karz,
mysterious tune, and thus kick- he recreated the song from the
starts a somber and emotional scratch, and also sang for the
repartee between the two. The very first time in Hindi, the up-
mood is dramatically pushed beat, refreshing cover of Om
through the tangible layers of play was penned after the loss of ed and is indeed the soul of the Shanti Om in this film.
darkness to the point of no re- two legendary actors Rishi Ka- film, which turns this short dra- Binod D who plays the role
turn. That’s when Binod must poor and Irrfan Khan, while the ma into a ‘feel good’ film. of Rishi Kapoor is a singer, film,
act quickly and effectively to film idea of making a cellphone Nidhi Kathuria is a writer, and theater actor, passionate
save Teeshay and the rest of the film about shooting a scene was filmmaker based in New Jersey. about event management, film
film crew from the obvious dark conceived a week before the Her feature film ‘Prince of Bol- producing and novel writing.
clouds of the year 2020 looming tragedy. While we will forever lywood’ is currently streaming “At some point the movie be-
over their heads. feel the loss of the two beautiful on Amazon Prime. came bigger than what we start-
We can complain, grieve, get lives lost, we must learn to en- This film is a group produc- ed, when I realized the tribute
angry, or suffer in pain when we dure the pain and celebrate the tion of South Asian Artists in part of it,” stated Binod.
can’t control the things that we incredible works of the two con- the US and Canada. Initiated Sanjay Kumar with a vast
wish we could control. But as Pi summate actors, and the char- by Sonny Chatrath, who also theater background, plays the
Patel (played by Irrfan Khan) in acters they brought to life in the plays the role of a cinematogra- role of a producer in the film.
Life of Pi says, “I suppose in the form of Paan Singh Tomar, Ma- pher in the film, the film project According to Sanjay, “Quar-
end, the whole of life becomes qbool, or Monty played by both; came together when Chatrath antine is being exploited as an
an act of letting go,” this also be- Irrfan in Life in a Metro and Ri- formed a core group of film- opportunity to create OTT con-
comes the message given out in shi Kapoor in Karz. The iconic makers encouraging them to tent, which has kept our emo-
the end of the film. The screen- song ‘Om Shanti Om’ is recreat- make quarantine films. Pooja tional sanity.”
C O rri G endu M
“Cut red tApe 4 herOeS diStriButed
ppeS tO heAlthCAre wOrkerS”
Dear editor, oratory (which is the organiza-
The Indian eye published tion that paid for all the PPEs)
an article last month about the in partnership with Housing
distribution of free PPEs to Works. Super Health Pharmacy
hospital staff at Bellevue Hos- and the IBA have provided vol-
pital. The article was headlined unteer support.
“IBA brings PPEs and cheers The correct name and title for
to healthcare staff at Bellevue Ms. Shearer is Rhonda Roland
Hospital.” Shearer (all three names). Her
The organization that dis- title is founder of Cut Red Tape
tributed the free PPEs to 4 Heroes and director of Art
healthcare workers is Cut Red Science Research Laboratory.
Tape 4 Heroes NOT the Indi- Thank you.
an Business Association. Cut Sydney Smith
Red Tape 4 Heroes is a project ASRL
of Art Science Research Lab- The error is regretted – Editor
www.TheIndianEYE .us
The Indian Eye
JUNE 12, 2020 25
www.TheIndianEYE .us
26 The Indian Eye| NORTH AmERIcAN Newsline | JUNE 12, 2020
taapsee pannu, Anupam kher, Anubhav Sinha &
neena Gupta headline eCSA Global Online film festival
Our BureAu
Dallas, TX
ndian film industry heavy-
weights Taapsee Pannu, An-
Iupam Kher, Anubhav Sinha
and Neena Gupta will ALL
make an “online” appearance
this month at ECSA: Escapist
Cinema of South Asia, a sev-
en-weekend-long virtual film
festival co-presented by sister
festivals DFW SAFF and NYC
SAFF. At its midway point, the
weekly online series has already
live-streamed 16 short films and
three feature films, attracted a
global audience of more than
1500 cinephiles and donated
hundreds of surgical masks to
TIPS (Texas Indo American
Physicians Society), as part of
its WATCH A FILM, SAVE A
LIFE charity initiative.
“We are proud to be the first
major South Asian Film Festi-
val in the U.S. to create a con-
tiguous, seven-weekend-long,
online film series,” said DFW
SAFF and NYC SAFF Found-
er and Festivals Director Jitin
Hingorani, also Principal/CEO
of producing sponsor JINGO
Media. “In the past month,
we have screened the Nation-
al Award-Winning Gujarati
film HELLARO, heard Gram-
my-nominated singer/song-
writer Falu Shah perform and
hosted the versatile television,
screen and stage actress Lillete
Dubey as a ‘virtual’ guest. Our
loyal audiences have been plan- icon, Rishi Kapoor. Each Saturday evening’s live june hiGhliGhtS inClude:
ning their Saturday evenings stream (7 to 10 p.m. CDT) will be followed by
around our programming, and a Zoom post-screening Q&A with actors and • june 13th - Funny Business: Comedienne Zarna
this is exactly the kind of escap- directors; audience members can engage by ask- Garg interviews comedian Tushar Singh, after
ism we wished to provide global ing questions through live chat. Each evening his docu-comedy AMERICAN HASI (trailer)
cinephiles who are either locked will end with a live or taped performance by an • june 20th - Indian film critic Rajeev Masand
down or choose to shelter-in- up-and-coming artist. Screenings are FREE for interviews actor Anupam Kher after his British
place during the pandemic.” lifetime members of DFW SAFF and will cost Sikh film THE BOY WITH THE TOPKNOT
The remaining three week- the general public $6 per block of programming (trailer)
ends in June will showcase (to commemorate six years of SAFF). Audience • june 27th - Producer & SAFF Board Member
unique, curated content, such members can log in to www.onlinefest.us from Viveck Vaswani moderates Q&A between di-
as comedy programming, anywhere in the world, create an account, pay for rector Anubhav Sinha and actors Neena Gupta
Sikh-centric films and a major their screenings in advance and receive remind- and Taapsee Pannu, after one of Rishi Kapoor’s
tribute to Indian Bollywood ers leading up the live event(s). last films MULK (trailer)
www.TheIndianEYE .us
The Indian Eye
JUNE 12, 2020 27
www.TheIndianEYE .us
28 The Indian Eye | NORTH AmERIcAN Newsline | JUNE 12, 2020
iAkf Condemns AssAssinAtion of A kAshmiri pAndit
minority leAder in kAshmir By islAmiC terrorists
Our BureAu short by the barbaric act of Is- Mr. Pandita, as well as other The United Nations and its
New York, NY lamic terrorists, whose only be- lower-tier public officials. IAKF Security Council must now de-
lief continues to be the establish- demands that Kashmiri Hindus clare Pakistan as a State Sponsor
ndo-American Kashmir ment of an Islamic Caliphate. still residing in the valley – who of Terrorism, and world leaders
Forum (IAKF) strongly The targeted killing of Mr. are obvious targets of Islamic must support an organized an-
Icondemns the ruthless kill- Pandita proves that the ethnic terrorists – be given extra police ti-terrorist campaign against the
ing of young Kashmiri Hindu cleansing of the minority Kash- protection until peace in the val- government and military estab-
peace advocate, Ajay Pandita miri Hindu community in the ley is restored. lishment of Pakistan
(Bharti), by terrorists in Kash- valley continues unabated. His IAKF also condemns the Is- Mr. Pandita made the ulti-
mir belonging to the Islamic gruesome, public murder is a lamic Republic of Pakistan, and mate sacrifice for establishing
terrorist group, The Resistance reminder of the havoc brought its supporters within the Kash- peace and democracy in Kash-
Front (TRF). IAKF prays for upon the entire aboriginal Kash- mir valley, for promoting, fund- mir, and his family deserves swift
Mr. Pandita’s grieving family, miri Hindu community, who ing, aiding and harboring glob- justice. IAKF demands Lieu-
including his parents, wife, and have been driven from their al Islamic terror organizations tenant Governor of the Union
two daughters. homeland in the Kashmir valley such as Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Territory of Jammu & Kashmir
Mr. Pandita was a popular through repeated pogroms over Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), to immediately institute an of-
grassroot community organizer, the past few centuries, most re- Hizbul Mujahideen (HM), and ficial inquiry into this vicious
and an elected leader of a local cently beginning in 1990. The Resistance Front (TRF). killing, identify the responsible
village administrative commit- The IAKF Board includes The Resistance Front (TRF), parties, and punish the guilty
tee from the Anantnag region in Dr. Vijay Sazawal, Dr. Rajiv which has taken responsibility parties. IAKF also demands
the Union Territory of Jammu Pandit, Mr. Lalit Koul, Mr. Raj for Mr. Pandita’s brutal murder, that all killings of Kashmiri Hin-
& Kashmir, India. His belief in Koul and Dr. Rahul Pandit. is merely a new, consolidated dus be investigated, and actions
democracy, and his attempts to IAKF denounces the local name for Islamic terrorists from taken to ensure the long-term
represent all Kashmiris at the government’s lackadaisical ap- the three groups already active safety of the Kashmiri Hindu re-
local village level, was sadly cut proach to the security needs of in Kashmir – HM, LeT and JeM. ligious minority.
lions celebrate 103 years of service by distributing groceries for the needy
OjAS ChitniS Visionary Lions and Middlesex Jagarlamudi and Past President there is not enough awareness.
Edison, June 7, 2020 Visionary Lions and their asso- Damu Gedala attended the dis- 1 in 8 households in New Jersey
ciated Leo clubs took part in the tribution. Global Action Team do not know if they will get 2
J Lions 2.0, a group of service today. The New York- Area Leader of Lions Clubs In- meals a day. With COVID-19
Lions Club with young- New Jersey area has been hit ternational Lion Mahesh Chit- these statistics is worsening. Our
Ner members came to- especially hard by the effects of nis, First Vice District Governor effort is to create awareness of
gether this morning to celebrate COVID-19 and there are many elect Varsha Naik, and Interna- this basic human right and re-
103rd year of service of Lions in our community in desperate tional Advisory Panelist of Leo duce hunger in our communi-
Clubs around the world. Found- need of food, medical supplies, Clubs Leo Ojas Chitnis graced ties.” He also thanked Dr. Raj
ed on June 7, 1917, in Chicago, and emotional support. the occasion. Pandya, Nilesh Dasundi, Parul
Illinois, Lions Clubs members In Edison, the Lions Clubs Since the beginning of the Amin, Biral Patel and BCB In-
have served with uncommon distributed food and supplies COVID-19 pandemic, Lions dus American Bank for their
kindness, putting the needs of to more than 50 families. Each Clubs both here in New Jersey community outreach. Lion Var-
their neighbors, their communi- family was given one box con- and around the world have tak- sha Naik, First Vice Governor
ties, and the world first. To com- taining 10 pounds of rice, 2, en up the challenge of service. Elect, thanked the Lions for
memorate this auspicious occa- pounds of lentils, 2 pounds of NJ Lions 2.0 has provided more their passion for service.
sion, NJ Lions 2.0 decided to do kidney beans, 1 liter of cooking than 1300 prepared meals and Lions Clubs International
what they do best, serve our com- oil, onions, potatoes, apples, 4 3000 masks for those in need in Foundation, the funding arm
munities by distributing food reusable cloth masks, and other our local community. The Lions of Lions Clubs International,
and supplies to those in need. food and essentials. The Lions have also held multiple online has given more than $4 million
The Lions Clubs have a say- Clubs hope that this can help events to help spread informa- for COVID-19 relief across the
ing: “Where there’s a Need, support families in need during tion about COVID-19 and to world. Please consider making a
there’s a Lion”. Living up to these hard times. This project provide emotional support to contribution to Lions Clubs In-
this mantra, four Lions Clubs was made possible through the people in our local community. ternational Foundation to sup-
in New Jersey have risen to the generous contributions from the According to Lion Mahesh port those in need. 100% of ev-
occasion to help those in need Telugu Fine Arts Society. Sever- Chitnis, Area Leader of Glob- ery dollar donated will be used
during the COVID-19 out- al office bearers of TFAS includ- al Action Team for the Lions by Lions Clubs across the world
break. Edison Visionary Lions, ing President Sudhaker Uppala, Clubs, “Even if food insecuri- to help people through these
Menlo Park Lions, Old Bridge Incoming President Sreedevi ties is a major issue in our state, hard times. ‘
www.TheIndianEYE .us
JUNE 12, 2020 | NORTH AmERIcAN Newsline | The Indian Eye 29
legislator solages seeks probe
into former nCpd officer recorded directing
racist slurs at Civil rights protesters
Our BureAu ward Serrao, and any testimony he may obvious racial bias and there is serious
have provided as a Nassau County police concern that such bias may have affected
MINEOLA, N.Y. officer, for evidence of racial hostility. the way he carried out his official duties,
assau County Legislator Carrié So- The disturbing video of the former of- including testimony that he provided un-
lages (D – Valley Stream), Rank- ficer antagonizing protestors was posted to der oath,” Legislator Solages wrote in his
Ning Member of the Legislature’s Twitter on June 4, according to published letter. “Convictions secured against mi-
Minority Affairs committee, is calling for reports. During a subsequent interview nority defendants based on former officer
a review of the past conduct of a recent- with a Newsday reporter, Serrao was re- Serrao’s testimony could be tainted by the
ly retired police officer who was recorded ported to have repeatedly used the N-word blatant racism that he displayed.”
making derogatory remarks and yelling the and additional racist language while refus- Therefore, Legislator Solages conclud-
N-word at protestors during a peaceful civil ing to apologize. County Executive Curran ed, “I respectfully request that Nassau
rights demonstration in Merrick. and Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder County and the Nassau County District At-
In a Tuesday, June 9 letter to Nassau have denounced the former officer’s con- torney’s Office review former officer Ser-
County Executive Laura Curran and Dis- duct and said he has been off the force for rao’s arrest record and conviction record
trict Attorney Madeline Singas, Legislator more than two years. and any testimonies he may have given as a
Solages urged officials to conduct a review “While it is important not to paint all Nassau County Police officer for racial hos-
of the arrest and conviction record of the police officers with a broad brush, in my tility, and take appropriate action should
officer, identified in media reports as Ed- opinion, former officer Serrao displayed any be found.”
www.TheIndianEYE .us
30 The Indian Eye | NORTH AmERIcAN Newsline | JUNE 12, 2020
iAAC and new york indian film festival
present a conversation with Gurinder Chadha
Our BureAu (Citizen Khan), Bessie Carter ceived suppliants from all over ential friends.
New York (Howard’s End), Pallavi Shar- the world. The plot revolves Mix in greed, treachery, and
da (Lion), Marc Warren (Safe), around a house on the outskirts amorous entanglements and
his exclusive event will Viveik Kalra (Blinded By of Delhi, recently purchased by the stage is set for a gripping
be broadcast live on Sat- The Light), Leo Suter (Victo- an enigmatic Englishman. saga of far-flung adventure,
Turday June 13, 2020 at ria), Shriya Pilgaonkar (Smile Set in 1795, as the Mogul suspense, and passion.
11.30 am–12.30 pm ET, 4.30- Please), and Roshan Seth (In- Empire is slowly losing its grip Beecham House is co-cre-
5.30 pm BST. Audience will be dian Summers). over a subcontinent it has dom- ated and written by Gurinder
able to ask questions in real Beecham House premieres inated for the past two centu- Chadha (Bend It Like Beck-
time in this interactive session on Sunday, June 14 10/9c on ries, the story focuses on the ham, Viceroy’s House, Bride
powered by MovieSaints. MASTERPIECE on PBS. struggle to control the lucrative & Prejudice), Paul Mayeda
At the event, the In- Hailed during its British trade with India. One contend- Berges (Viceroy’s House), and
do-American Arts Council broadcast as “splendid” (The er is France. The other is Great Shahrukh Husain (In Custody).
and the New York Indian Film Telegraph) and “a feast for the Britain’s East India Company, Victor Levin (Mad Men) also
Festival will present an online eyes” (The Times), Beecham a private venture supported by serves as writer on the series.
conversation with Gurinder House showcases the culture, mercenary troops. Beecham House was originally
Chadha (Bend It Like Beck- grandeur, and unbridled ambi- Three years before, John commissioned by ITV (UK).
ham, Bride and Prejudice), di- tion of one of the greatest civi- Beecham (Bateman) was an of- ITV’s Head of Drama, Polly
rector of the new MASTER- lizations on Earth at the end of ficer for the East India Compa- Hill, commissioned Beecham
PIECE show Beecham House, the 18th century. ny. Troubled by its rapine tac- House for ITV in the UK and
a six-part epic starring Tom Shot largely on location in tics, he quit. Since then, he has oversaw production of the dra-
Bateman (Vanity Fair), Lesley Rajasthan and Delhi in India, been trading as an honest pri- ma on behalf of the broadcast-
Nicol (Downton Abbey), and Beecham House recaptures vate citizen, falling more and er. Rebecca Eaton serves as
Dakota Blue Richards (En- the majesty of the old impe- more in love with India and Executive Producer-at-Large
deavour). The international rial capital with its signature establishing strong local ties. for MASTERPIECE. Susanne
cast also features Gregory Fi- Red Fort and dazzling Peacock Not incidentally, he has earned Simpson is the Executive Pro-
toussi (Mr. Selfridge), Adil Ray Throne, where the emperor re- a small fortune and made influ- ducer of MASTERPIECE.
www.TheIndianEYE .us
JUNE 12, 2020 | NORTH AmERIcAN Newsline | The Indian Eye 31
South Asian Arts resiliency fund awards grants to
24 artists from various disciplines over two-month period
Our BureAu about $40,000, which is being an ambassador wanting to give Massive. Awardee Sanjib Bhat-
rapidly distributed to grantees. Nepali music a wider audience. tacharya from Ohio is a global-
New York, NY “The money is being donat- To focus on creative work is not ly recognized Manipuri dancer
A easy without financial support, who is also an award recipient
total of 24 South Asian ed mostly by individuals who
artists from various are passionate about the arts
as gigs have been cancelled. I from former Indian President,
disciplines,
including and want to support those who
Sarangi tutorial materials, and arts worker and artist Tulika
dance, visual art, theatre, film dedicate their lives to it,” says now have time to work on my Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. Illinois
and design, have been awarded Raoul Bhavnani, one of ICF’s the grant allows me the free- Ladsariya’s paintings have been
grants by the South Asian Arts Co-Founders. “From filmmak- dom and time to focus on that.” written about in publications
Resiliency Fund (SAARF), an ers to performance artists, visual Despite many of the ap- such as Elle and Time Out.
arts project funding program artists, writers and musicians, the plicants being accomplished Mr. Bhavnani adds, “Despite
created by the India Center grantees hail from across South in their fields, they are find- the easing of lockdowns around
Foundation (ICF), over two Asian countries of origin who ing it hard to fund their work the country, artists are likely to
rounds since mid-April. A third represent its culture through during this pandemic. Round see restrictions on the ability to
round is currently underway with their art here in the U.S.” two grantees include artists practice their crafts for many
an application deadline of June Nepali musician and grant like sitarist and teacher Abhik more months. In years to come,
15th. The Fund, open to South winner Shyam Nepali says, Mukherjee from New York, it will be their creativity that will
Asian-American artists and arts “This grant is very important who has received a scholarship help us recollect this unprece-
workers who have been impact- for me because as a musician from India’s Ministry of Cul- dented time. It’s so important
ed by the economic fallout of from Nepal living in the U.S., I ture and is a member of the im- to give them the resources now
COVID-19, has already raised am here not just for me, but as mensely popular Brooklyn Raga to do just that.”
www.TheIndianEYE .us
The Indian Eye JUNE 12, 2020
32
FOR
COMMUNITY
NEWS & EVENTS
email:
neela pandya
neelapandya @gmail.com
646-963-5993
or
Balkrishen Shukla
[email protected]
732-397-2871
The Indian Eye
JUNE 12, 2020 33
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South The Indian Eye
AmERIcANnewsline
34 JUNE 12, 2020
Biggest vande Bharat mission from latin
America sends 696 indians home
Indian Embassy in Brasilia and Indian Consulate in Sao Paulo coordinate efforts to make available special
flights to Indians stranded in the biggest Latin American country
Our BureAu
Sao Paulo
lmost 700 Indians who
have been stranded in Bra-
Azil because of the Covid-19
pandemic have been sent back to
India on special flights. “In the
biggest ever VBM in LAC region,
Embassy of India in Brasilia & In-
dian Consulate in SP facilitated
the repatriation of 696 Indian na-
tionals in last 5 days. Kudos team
@indiainbrazil,” tweeted the In-
dian Embassy in Brazil on June 8
when a special Ethiopian Airlines
flight left for India.
Diplomats from the Indian
missions in Brasilia and Sao Paulo
were present at the airport to over-
see the entire process of screening
and boarding of flight.
“Smoothly facilitated the de-
parture of Indian nationals strand-
ed in Brazil by a special charter
flight operated by Ethiopian Air-
lines. They are expected to arrive
in Mumbai tomorrow,” said the In-
dian Consulate on its twitter page.
The stranded Indians included
students, short-term visa workers
for Indian firms, businesspersons
and residents who needed to trav-
el to India for compelling reasons.
To board the special Ethio-
pian Airlines flight, the passen-
gers arrived at Sao Paulo airport
at 11:30am to complete all the
screening and checking. They were
all given a kit with masks, shields
and sanitizers. After screening and
check-in, packed lunch at the air-
port was organized by Indian Em-
bassy. “Very hygienic and just like
homemade meal,” tweeted a pas-
senger about the food prepared by
Samosa & Company restaurant in
Sao Paulo. Continued at next page... >>
www.TheIndianEYE .us
JUNE 12, 2020 | SOuTH AmERIcA NEwS | The Indian Eye 35
www.TheIndianEYE .us
36 The Indian Eye | OPINION | JUNE 12, 2020
digital healthcare
and rising Cyber Concerns
The outbreak of COVID-19 has not only pushed economies into recession but also brought forth the
fragility of healthcare systems in general. Migrating to digital mode has since been a major move across the
healthcare sector. Increased digitalisation is expected to help service providers create a robust and critical
infrastructure focused on patient’s safety and quality care
It has been predicted that by
kritikA rOy 2025 most of the hospitals world-
T he future of digital wide would move to the digital
appears
healthcare
platform, thereby increasing the
promising as patients
would be more comfortable us- market size of the healthcare
sector from US$ 16.92 billion in
ing digital services for complex 2017 to about US$ 58.78 billion
and sensitive medical condi- by 2025. However, there is an ev-
tions. However, a major down- ident downside to these health-
side of going digital is the immi- care innovations. These new de-
nent threat of attacks lingering vices open-up more entry points
in the cyberspace. Considering of cyberattacks and challenges
that the healthcare sector is crit- for those in charge of online secu-
ical infrastructure, patient in- rity and patient data protection.
formation and medical reports
available online would be a gold Cyber risks and Concerns
trove that could be exploited for The healthcare sector has
various malicious purposes. been the prime target of online
ing technology and so on would deep learning, body scans have attacks threatening day-to-day
digital healthcare
impact different forms of treat- been shown to analyse CAT work and compromising confi-
Digital healthcare refers ment, care concepts, and image scans up to 150 times faster than dential patient data. The critical
to the integration of medical of the medical profession and human radiologists, detecting infrastructure systems in hospi-
knowledge with information role of patients. In terms of IT acute neurological events in tals are particularly threatened
technology (IT) applications strategy, many of these areas re- just 1.2 seconds. With several by ransomware, besides differ-
(apps) to help improve medical late to opportunities for the for- medical-grade sensors includ- ent types of malware and distrib-
care and supervision of patients. mulation of hospital processes ing optical, temperature, elec- uted denial of service (DDoS)
This means that a smartphone subject to the concept of “hos- trodermal, accelerometer and attacks, which can be locked
can be used to determine pa- pital 4.0”. New diagnostic and barometer being incorporated up by malicious actors and un-
tient’s medical condition by therapeutic approaches are de- within wearables, these devices locked only following payment
monitoring patient’s vital data veloped with the support of IT can be comfortably worn on the of ransom.
(pulse, blood pressure and oxy- management in the context of arm for several days and have Medical devices are designed
gen saturation) including body “precision medicine” approach higher-than-average patient sat- for one-point tasks like monitor-
temperature and movement and digital therapeutics that isfaction and adherence rates. ing of heart rates or dispensing
patterns. It can also be used to powers personalised predictive The data from these wearables drugs. They are not designed
determine if the patient has tak- care. can be used in effective ways with security in mind. Although
en the prescribed medication. Today’s telehealth technolo- like monitoring health and pro- the devices themselves may not
Digital technologies enable gy is empowering patients in the viding preventative care. For store the patient data that at-
need-oriented solutions and the remotest locations of the world instance, Hong Kong has been tackers pursue, they can be used
provision of preventative, clin- to access quality healthcare and putting electronic wristbands on as launching grounds to attack
ical and rehabilitative services. receive life-saving diagnoses. arriving passengers to enforce a server that holds valuable in-
Deploying advanced technolo- Telemedicine allows access to the coronavirus quarantine. formation, or facilitates access
gies like digital health, big data, quality healthcare at any time The wristbands are connected to other networks, or let hackers
artificial intelligence (AI), aug- thereby levelling the playing to a smartphone app to make install expensive ransomware
mented reality (AR) and virtual field – geographically and finan- sure that people stay at home on servers. In a worst-case sce-
reality (VR), wearables and in- cially. Additionally, it has been and break the chain of further
ternet of things (IoT), 3D print- observed that using AI and spread of the virus. Continued at next page... >>
www.TheIndianEYE .us
JUNE 12, 2020 | OPINION | The Indian Eye 37
nario, medical equipment can vestigation (FBI) thereafter is- With the allocation of funds staff lacks the necessary securi-
completely be overridden by at- sued a warning about Kwampirs in the 2019 union budget for the ty know-how to implement up-
tackers, limiting hospitals from (a backdoor Trojan that grants Ayushman Bharat Yojana, de- dates and patches promptly, and
providing vital life-saving treat- remote computer access to veloping the healthcare sector many medical devices lack secu-
ment to patients. the attackers) malware target- is a top priority. Meanwhile, to rity software altogether. Human
In the backdrop of ing supply chains including the ensure better coverage for the error opens a hole in systems as
COVID-19, many healthcare healthcare industry. healthcare initiative, the Minis- most breaches are triggered by
organisations have seen an in- try of Health has issued a critical employee mistakes or unautho-
crease in cyber exploitation. Ac- india and digital healthcare document for public consulta- rised disclosures. Experts note
cording to a report, the cyber- India has not been very tion to completely digitalise the that hospitals often do not know
attacks in the healthcare sector far behind in riding the digital healthcare data, and create a what systems run on the devices
increased by 150 per cent during wave. In 2017, the union cabi- national digital health network they use. Many of these devices
January-February 2020 as crimi- net approved the formulation of called National Digital Health are black boxes to hospitals as
nals sought to take advantage of National Health Policy, under Blueprint. This would help there is a general lack of aware-
the system vulnerabilities during which a National e-Health Au- deliver value-added services ness, besides the usual lack of
the crisis. Scams by grey-mar- thority (NeHA) is to be setup. to the concerned users with a resources. Without a multi-lay-
keters for personal protective Such a policy would evolve and consent-based flow of citizen’s ered protective cyber ecosys-
equipment (PPE) have also expand health information net- health record. tem, the medical staff may not
seen a steady rise as healthcare works across the continuum of India is committed to fi- even know when they are under
professionals remain short of care, such as e-Health, m-Health, nancially support all the dig- attack.
critical supplies. and cloud technology and IoT ital initiatives and looks for India is at the cusp of digital
On March 13, 2020, one in healthcare delivery. Major IT multi-stakeholder engagement transformation. However, with
of the Czech Republic’s big- initiatives include ‘India Fights and private-public partnerships digital threats becoming trick-
gest testing laboratories, Brno Dengue’ mobile app which pro- to scale up these initiatives. ier, a more holistic approach
University Hospital, was hit by vides interactive information on Even under the current crisis, towards cybersecurity would be
a cyberattack. As a result, the the identification of symptoms the government has rolled out needed to facilitate the creation
hospital had to postpone ur- and links users to the nearest apps such as Aarogya Setu to of a vibrant digital healthcare
gent surgical interventions and hospitals and blood banks. The help citizens identify the risk environment. If going digital is
transfer patients with acute con- Swasth Bharat (Healthy India) of contracting COVID-19 and necessary for the country to be
ditions to a different hospital app provides information on AYUSH Sanjivani to spread on par with the digital world,
while shutting down their entire healthy lifestyle, disease con- awareness about traditional then building a resilient and
IT network. Similarly, the web- ditions and their symptoms, Ayurvedic medicines. trusted cyber ecosystem is also a
site of Champaign-Urbana Pub- treatment options, and first necessity.
lic Health District in the United aid and public health alerts. way forward
States was attacked by new ran- The Ministry of Health and Going digital is the most Kritika Roy is Research Analyst
somware called NetWalker. Vic- Family Welfare introduced a effective way to protect the at Manohar Parrikar Institute for
tims received a ransom demand draft bill on Digital Informa- first line of healthcare workers Defence Studies and Analyses.
for the encryption key to regain- tion Security in Healthcare Act especially in the case of high-
ing access to their data. This (DISHA) in March 2018. One ly communicable viruses like Views expressed are of the author
and do not necessarily reflect
ransomware camouflaged itself key purpose of the proposed bill COVID-19 while increasing the views of the IDSA or of the
within essential Windows func- is to secure and create reliable the efficiency of health services. Government of India.
tions to evade anti-virus detec- storage of healthcare data. It However, cybersecurity can-
tion. Health district employees will help constitute a health in- not be an afterthought in the This article first appeared in the
became aware of the ransom- formation exchange, as deemed healthcare sector. Medical spe- Comments section of the website
ware attack on March 10 when eligible by the Act, and maintain cialists often use old and out- of the Institute for Defence Stud-
they lost access to the medical the digital healthcare data of in- dated software/hardware with ies and Analyses (IDSA), New
files. The Federal Bureau of In- dividual patients. minimum security features, Delhi, on June 11, 2020
www.TheIndianEYE .us
38 The Indian Eye JUNE 12, 2020
www.TheIndianEYE .us
The Indian Eye
JUNE 12, 2020 39
0,0
100
42W 38th Street, Ste. # 500, New York, NY10018
TEL: 212-382-1741 FAX: 212-997-0021
Drop Off Locations
Patel Video, Jersey City – 201-963-8073
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40 The Indian Eye | Business EYE | JUNE 12, 2020
indian it firms may face problems if trump
blocks h-1b and other work visas in us
nAssCom asks us to exempt tech firms from the reported move
Our BureAu categories of ICT workers as
essential service, should help
New Delhi define the types of essential
S President Donald workers,” it said.
Trump is considering Nasscom stated that demand
Ususpending a number for high-tech skills remains
of employment visas including strong among employers in the
the H-1B, most sought-after US labour market, even amidst
among Indian IT profession- the current COVID-19 crisis.
als, in view of the massive un- Also, in the 30-day period
employment in America due to ending May 13, 2020, there
the coronavirus pandemic, ac- were over 6,25,000 active job
cording to a media report. The vacancy postings advertised
proposed suspension could online for jobs in common
extend into the government’s financial daily reported. ployment in America due to computer occupations, includ-
new fiscal year beginning Oc- Meanwhile, the US Cham- the COVID-19 pandemic. ing those most common to
tober 1, when many new visas bers of Commerce CEO Nasscom said as businesses H-1B visa holders, Nasscom
are issued, The Wall Street Thomas Donohue on Thurs- reopen, it is important for the said citing analysis of Bureau
Journal reported on Thursday, day wrote a letter to Trump, US to access talent critical to of Labour Statistics’ Current
quoting unnamed administra- expressing concern over his the recovery phase, and Amer- Population Survey by the Na-
tion officials. reported move on temporary ican enterprises need access to tional Foundation for Ameri-
work visas. As the economy re- essential technology workers can Policy.
that could bar any new bounds, American businesses who are keeping critical infra-
structure operating.
will need assurances that they
h-1B holder outside the can meet all their workforce “These include healthcare, “the data raises signif-
country from coming to needs. To that end, it is crucial hospitals and online services icant questions about
and playing key roles to devel-
that they have access to talent
work until the suspension both domestically and from op treatments for this disease using the argument of
is lifted, though visa hold- around the world, Donohue -- to name a few vital services. unemployment rate for
wrote in a letter to Trump.
Highly skilled workers on
ers already in the country According to The Hill non-immigrant visas (NIVs) computer professionals
are unlikely to be affected, newspaper, Donohue said that such as H-1Bs and L-1s, are to justify the new restric-
playing critical roles in the de-
American businesses need L-1
the daily reported. visa holders, who have a work livery of these services and the tions on h-1B visa holders
visa valid for a relatively short development of these prod- and international students
Such a decision by the amount of time, for necessary ucts,” Nasscom said in a state- working on optional prac-
Trump administration is likely expertise. ment.
to have an adverse impact on On Friday, IT industry body It added that without their tical training (opt),” it
thousands of Indian IT profes- Nasscom sought exemption for continued contributions, “the said.
sionals. Already a large num- technology workers from re- economic pain would worsen,
ber of Indians on the H-1B vi- strictions that may be imposed industry would slow, and the
sas have lost their jobs and are in the US, saying such staff is timeline for a treatment and The industry body said
headed back home during the playing an essential role in cure could lengthen”. non-immigrant visa pro-
coronavirus pandemic. keeping critical infrastructure “Given this, we seek exemp- grammes like the H1-B and
In addition to the H-1B vi- operating in America. The tion for technology workers as L-1 enable the US business-
sas, the suspension could apply statement comes amid reports essential workers, from any re- es to bridge the STEM skills
to the H-2B visa for short-term that the US is considering sus- strictions that may be imposed deficit and access skilled tech
seasonal workers, the J-1 visa pension of a number of employ- in a second White House Proc- workforce not available local-
for short-term workers includ- ment visas including the H-1B lamation. Priorities established ly, thereby ensuring they can
ing camp counselors and au - which is much sought-after by DHS’ CISA (Cybersecurity deliver on projects that keep
pairs and the L-1 visa for in- among Indian IT professionals and Infrastructure Security them on the leading-edge of
ternal company transfers, the - in view of the massive unem- Agency) that designates key global competitiveness.
www.TheIndianEYE .us
JUNE 12, 2020 | Business EYE | The Indian Eye 41
BUSINESS BRIEFS
indiA’s forex reserves Cross govt extends delivery
period of All CApitAl
hAlf-A-trillion mArk ACquisition ContrACts
he country’s foreign exchange re- he Defence Ministry on Friday extended by
serves crossed the half-a-trillion four months the delivery period for all mili-
Tmark for the first time after it surged Ttary equipment and hardware under capital
by massive $8.22 billion in the week ended acquisition contracts with Indian vendors in view of
June 5, according to the latest data from the coronavirus pandemic, officials said. The deci-
the RBI. The reserves rose to $501.70 sion has been taken due to supply chain disruptions
billion in the reporting week helped by a arising out of measures put in place by the govern-
whopping rise in foreign currency assets ment to contain spread of the pandemic, they said.
(FCA). In the previous week ended May “The Ministry of Defence has extended the delivery
29, the reserves had increased by $3.44 bil- period for all existing capital acquisition contracts
lion to $493.48 billion. with Indian vendors by four months,” a spokesper-
In the week ended June 5, FCA, which son in the ministry said. In case of foreign vendors,
is a major component of the overall re- of India (RBI) data showed. In the the official said they can approach the Defence
serves, rose $8.42 billion to $463.63 billion. reporting week, the special drawing Ministry, which may consider cases on the basis of
Expressed in dollar terms, the foreign cur- rights with the International Mon- the situation prevailing in their respective countries.
rency assets include the effect of appreci- etary Fund (IMF) were up by $10 The ministry issued an order saying the exten-
ation or depreciation of non-US units like million to $1.44 billion. The coun- sion of delivery period of equipment and hardware
the euro, pound and yen held in the for- try’s reserve position with the IMF will be applicable for the period between March 25
eign exchange reserves. The gold reserves also rose $120 million to $4.28 bil- and July 24. According to the order, no separate
declined by $329 million to $32.352 billion lion during the reporting week, the contract or specific amendments will be required
in the reporting week, the Reserve Bank data showed. for implementation of the new provision.
www.TheIndianEYE .us
42 The Indian Eye | Entertainment EYE | JUNE 12, 2020
ShAktI kApoor SoNu SooD
Not allowing Shraddha to resume work Now, actor makes people laugh with a joke
s lockdown ctor Sonu Sood is
5.0 has re- leaving no stone
Alaxed certain Aunturned to help
restrictions, some the migrant workers
Bollywood produc-
ers are all set to re- reach their hometowns
amid the coronavirus
sume shoots with strict pandemic. From arrang-
guidelines in place. ing buses to launching a
While many are eager toll free helpline number
to get back on the set, and taking necessary per-
some are still skepti-
cal about the situation. Bollywood actor mission from the authorities,
Shakti Kapoor, who is self-quarantined at home with his fam- Sonu has won the hearts of many
ily, is also not on board with the idea. Shakti, in a chat, opened with his selfless act. Recently, a user tweeted to Sonu to
help him reach his hometown to attend his wife’s last
up about not being comfortable with Bollywood commencing rites. The actor was quick to reply and promised him that
shoots of their stalled projects so soon. He said, “I will not go he would reach his village on time. Amid this, another
out and work for now, nor will I allow my daughter Shraddha user tweeted to Sonu for helping him runaway with his
to resume work. I don’t think the threat is gone. I feel the
worst is yet to come. I won’t let my children out for now. I girlfriend to Andaman and Nicobar islands. This hilari-
know work is important but not at the cost of one’s life. It will ous tweet left everyone in splits. The user tweeted, “Bhai..
be very chaotic if people start shooting now. I tell industry Mujhe bhi kahi chhod do.. Girlfriend ke sath Bhagnaa
hai!! Anman nicobar hi chhod do bhai!!” Giving a hilari-
people in our group that it is better to wait than pay hospital ous reply, Sonu wrote, “Mere paas iss se behtar idea hai.
bills. It is still a very bad state of affairs outside.” Kyun na aap dono ke saath aap logon ke pariwaar ko bhi
ShAh rukh khAN bhej du. Chatt mangani, patt vyah (I have a better idea.
Why not send you both there with your families. Quick
engagement and wedding.”
What his biopic be titled as?
hah Rukh Khan, who is one of the most loved actors of Bollywood,
is currently at home and making the most of his free time with
Swife Gauri Khan and his kids, Aryan, Suhana and AbRam. From
singing songs to reading a storybook to AbRam, SRK has been sharing
glimpses from his quarantine diaries on social media. Considering Shah
Rukh’s superstardom, his fans might get to see his biopic some day. SRK,
who is known for his humor and wit, was once asked about his biopic
in one of the episodes of Karan Johar’s talk show. During the rapid-fire
segment, when Karan asked him if his biopic is made, what would it be
called? Giving a serious reply, Shah Rukh said that he feels the song that
will play when he passes away 117 years after will be ‘Kal Ho Naa Ho’. He
thinks his biopic should be called ‘Kal Ho Naa Ho’.
www.TheIndianEYE .us
JUNE 12, 2020 | Entertainment EYE| The Indian Eye 43
Bollywood’s obsession with
whiteness under the scanner as
top stars back #Blacklivesmatter
A-list Bollywood actresses, including Priyanka Chopra, shared
posts against the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis
Our BureAu for their anti-racism social me-
Mumbai dia posts while having featured
in ads for skin fairness products.
everal Bollywood stars India’s multibillion-dollar
have been labelled “hypo- skin lightening industry has a
Scrites” after speaking out host of products appearing to of-
against racism to lend support fer dark-skinned Indians a light-
to global protests while promot- er, fairer and ostensibly “better”
ing products in India designed to version of themselves, often en-
make people’s skin lighter. The dorsed by the Bollywood’s top
actors were also trolled and ac- Sonam Kapoor Deepika Padukone actors.
cused of “cowardice” for their Social media users also ques-
refusal to call out the attacks on ted endorsing such a product as Actresses Sonam Kapoor tioned why Bollywood continued
India’s minorities, mainly Mus- a young actress and that she is Ahuja, Deepika Padukone and to write lyrics and dialogues that
lims, while protesting against the proud of her dark skin. Disha Patani also faced criticism equated fairness with beauty.
killing of George Floyd in the Kangana Ranaut, a noted ac-
United States. Bollywood has serious pC problem tress, spoke out against her Bol-
A series of A-list Bollywood lywood colleagues for promoting
actresses, including Priyanka Many Indian films will fail the test for various reasons fairness products. “These peo-
Chopra, shared posts on social ple, especially Indian celebrities,
media to protest against the • Karan Johar’s Kuch Kuch the successful ones ... have been
Hota Hai had problematic
death of Floyd who died in po- ideals of an “attractive wom- endorsing all kinds of fairness
lice custody after a white offi- an” and femininity products and today shameless-
cer knelt on his neck for nearly • In Shah Rukh Khan-Manisha ly they stand and say black lives
nine minutes. “End this race war matter - I mean how dare they?”
here in the US, and around the Koirala starrer Dil Se, Khan’s she said in an interview.
world. Wherever you live, what- character, Amarkanth Var- Meanwhile, many in India
ever your circumstances, NO ma, fails to understand what also criticised the Bollywood ac-
‘no’ means, with Koirala’s
ONE deserves to die, especially character being anything but tors for their silence when Indians
at the hands of another because ambiguous about her feelings face atrocities and other forms
of their skin colour,” Chopra, 37, towards him of violence. “So much respect
posted on Instagram. for all the celebrities tweeting
“People were quick to call • A funny little segment in #BLACK_LIVES_MATTER.
her out on social media for pre- Nikhil Advani’s Kal Ho Na It takes courage to bring your
Ho of Kanta Ben freaking
viously promoting an “intense out watching two men in bed cowardice to the fore when you
fairness moisturiser”. They also together snowballed into an- • Bhumi Pednekar appeared in tweet for American lives but can’t
pointed at her role in a 2008 other Dharma Productions brownface in Bala. tweet for Indian lives,” tweeted
Hindi film, Fashion, in which she Omar Abdullah, former chief
is ashamed of having sex with a nightmare — Dostana which • In Hum Aapke Hain Koun, minister of the erstwhile Jammu
black man. “Thanks for speak- caricatured homosexuality the movie showed that any and Kashmir state, now divid-
ing out for black lives. But, may- • Saawan Kumar Tak’s 1983 film woman can be used as com- ed into two federal territories.
Souten featured Shreeram
pensation for a dead wife or
be also stop supporting a skin Lagoo sporting blackface to motherless child. Others asked why the Bolly-
bleaching cream which promotes underline the fact that he was • Dhanush’s superhit Raanjha- wood actors do not take a stand
anti-blackness,” one user replied playing a Dalit character. naa caused a furore because on contentious issues such as
to Chopra’s Instagram post. the “anti-Muslim” Citizenship
Chopra, a former Miss World • Sunny Deol starrer Ghatak of its glorification of stalking Amendment Act passed by the
who became a star in both Bolly- (1996) featured an entire in the name of love. India re- government late last year, or the
wood and Hollywood, has said in song sequence with backup cords a case of stalking every protests and violence that fol-
dancers in blackface
55 minutes.
past interviews that she regret- lowed after the passage of the law.
www.TheIndianEYE .us
44 The Indian Eye | FuTuRE this wEEk | JUNE 12, 2020
NumeroloGy Prediction June 12 to June 18, 2020
NumBer 5 (MercUrY)
By CeleBrity Numerologist
(Those born on the 5th, 14th and 23rd in any month)
Hirav sHaH This week is going to be fabulous. Very favorable week
for who is into the field of Electric, Electronics, Medical,
Hirav Shah is engaged with few from fortune 500 Teaching, IT etc profession. Conversations, negotiations,
companies, actors, actress, National political parties meetings, responding to letters and phone calls, and com-
to provide them strategies & analytical solution and munications of all kinds are important activities now. A
guidance to bring them better height of success through significant discussion or exchange of information is likely.
his sharp knowledge of astrology numerology science. This is a good time to get the views of someone you respect.
• Avoid wearing dark Blue color
[email protected] | www.hiravshah.com
• lucky days : friday
NumBer 1 (SUn) • lucky Color : purple
(Those born on the 1st, 10th, 19th and 28th in any month) NumBer 6 (VenUS)
Emotions, prejudices, or unresolved issues from the past (Those born on the 6th, 15th and 24th in any month)
come up in your interactions with others now, and you You are fascinated by the mysterious now. Unsolved or
may not be very objective. This is a good time to speak up puzzling problems and the hidden or behind-the-scenes
and clear the air of any grievances you have been holding aspects of a situation interest you most, and you delve
on to for some time. Personal subjects are the topic of and probe until you discover the truth. An interest in psy-
discussion now. Reminiscing, remembering, daydream- chology or other people’s secrets comes to the fore. You
ing about and reflecting on the past is likely. enjoy spy stories, mystery, and supernatural stories.
• Avoid wearing Black color • Avoid wearing yellow color
• lucky days : friday • lucky days : Sunday
• lucky Color : parrot Green • lucky Color : Golden
NumBer 7 (nePtUne)
NumBer 2 (Moon) (Those born on the 7th, 16th and 25th in any month)
(Those born on the 2nd, 11th, 20th and 29th in any month) The world of imagination, fantasy, entertainment, or art
You are craving emotional excitement, stimulation, and holds more attraction for you. Go to a movie with a friend (or
something new and alive. This is a time for music, danc- write your own!). Also, your psychic sensitivity and intuition
ing, and being joyfully spontaneous. Your social inhibi- are heightened at this time. You are more impressionable
tions are loosened, and you may be tempted to have a and open, but somewhat less precise and clear mentally.
wild flirtation or to act in a rather reckless way in a rela- • Avoid wearing Brown color
tionship. You have an abundance of physical energy and • lucky days : thursday
self-confidence right now and can take on new projects • lucky Color : Off white
and challenges with ease. NumBer 8 (SAtUrn)
• Avoid wearing pink color (Those born on the 8th, 17th and 26th in any month)
• lucky days : Sunday A short trip, or at least a lot of activity and movement, is
• lucky Color : white very likely now. A significant conversation, learning from
another person, and getting your own ideas and percep-
NumBer 3 (JUPiter) tions across to others is also likely. You may hear from
(Those born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st and 30th in any month) someone who has important information for you, or feel
Giving and receiving appreciation, love, and happiness a pressing need to write or call someone else in order to
come into your life now. You are moved to express your bring some matter in the open. Communications of all
affections more openly than usual. You also want to be kinds play an important role in your life now.
surrounded with beauty and harmonious people, and • Avoid wearing red color
your artistic efforts flourish. You feel bolder and less de- • lucky days : wednesday
pendent on others’ affirmation and approval. Taking a • lucky Color : Orange
strong stand or striking out on your own in some manner NumBer 9 (MArS)
is likely to work out well for you. (Those born on the 9th, 18th and 27th in any month)
• Avoid wearing purple color At this time you enjoy emotional satisfaction and harmony
• lucky days : Monday in your home life. Relationships with women run smooth-
• lucky Color : light Green ly. If you have a solid emotional base in your life, you will
receive the benefits of that. If not, this is a good time to
NumBer 4 (UrAnUS) begin making connections with people and also to discov-
(Those born on the 4th, 13th, 22nd and 31st in any month) er what gives real emotional nourishment and fulfillment.
You are contentious, argumentative and impatient now. • Avoid wearing Orange color
Disagreements erupt because you aren’t willing to over- • lucky days : Monday
look minor irritations as readily as usual. Confrontations • lucky Color : white
with others may be fruitful if you don’t allow your anger to CeleBrItIes of the week :
get out of control. You are highly competitive at this time.
• Avoid wearing dark colors JuNe 16 - mIthuN ChAkrABorty JuNe 19 - AshIsh VIdyArthI
• lucky days : thursday JuNe 16 - ImtIAz AlI JuNe 20 - NICole kIdmAN
• lucky Color : yellow JuNe 17 - lIsA hAydoN JuNe 20 - Neetu ChANdrA
www.TheIndianEYE .us
JUNE 12, 2020 | ImmIGRATION | The Indian Eye 45
need to plan Ahead Before Sponsoring
a Senior parent for a Green Card
CyruS MehtA residency or continue to travel as the trip abroad has been in excess appointment after the filing of the All of these factors have to be
visitors. It is generally not advisable of 180 days under INA 101(a)(13) application for the reentry permit, carefully considered before a parent
any US citizens, especially to use the green card as a tourist (C)(ii), the CBP official can still find they must return to the US for the obtains a green card. Is the parent
those who have recent- visa. A green card holder is required abandonment even if the resident biometrics and again risk an aggres- willing to live in the US permanent-
Mly naturalized, desire to to reside in the US permanently. departed the US for less than 180 sive inspection by a CBP official, al- ly and uproot oneself after living a
sponsor their senior parents for law- While travelling once a year on a days under 101(a)(13)(C)(i). In any though the risk may be lessened if it lifetime in the home country? If not,
ful permanent residence, also collo- green card is theoretically permissi- event, in order for the green card to is clear that the parent is returning is the parent still prepared to reside
quially known as the green card. A ble, there will come a point in time be valid, the resident must return to pursue a reentry permit. in the US at some point in the near
US citizen can sponsor a parent for when the Customs and Border Pro- to the US within one year of the There are also important tax future after settling affairs at home,
a green card as an immediate rela- tection (CBP) officer at a port of en- prior departure pursuant to 8 CFR considerations. Failure to file a res- and most likely apply for a reentry
tive by filing Form I-130 under INA try will question why the green card 211.1(a)(2). ident tax return upon becoming a permit in the meantime and then
201(b)(2)(A)(i). Immediate rela- holder is not permanently residing The term “temporary visit green card holder, or filing as a non- maintain it? Is the parent prepared
tives are not subject to quotas that in the US. The CBP official routine- abroad” has been subject to inter- resident, can have an adverse im- to file US tax returns and declare
can take many years to clear, and ly asks a returning resident how long pretation by a few Circuit Courts. pact on not just the parent’s green foreign bank accounts each year?
thus the process can be complet- they have been outside the US since The Ninth Circuit’s interpretation card status but also with respect to Has the parent’s health needs been
ed within a relatively short period their last departure from the US. If in Singh v. Reno, 113 F.3d 1512 (9th the ability to naturalize in the future. taken into account? If the parent is
of time. Bringing a parent over to the CBP official determines that the Cir. 1997) is generally followed: See 8 CFR 316.5(c)(2). A green not ready, it may still be preferable
join the US citizen and their family parent has abandoned permanent A trip is a ‘temporary visit card holder is considered a resident for the parent to continue visiting
permanently in this country can be residence, they could be charged abroad’ if (a) it is for a relatively for tax purposes as he or she meets the US as a tourist each year. Of
a great source of joy and has lots with inadmissibility and placed in short period, fixed by some early the “green card test” or the “sub- course, if the parent was refused a
of benefits. In addition to living in removal proceeding. Although event; or (b) the trip will terminate stantial presence test.” Even if the tourist visa in the past, then being
close proximity and enjoying emo- the burden of proof is on the gov- upon the occurrence of an event parent does not earn any income in sponsored for a green card makes
tional bonds, senior parents can be ernment to establish through clear that has a reasonable possibility of the United States, but has earnings more sense. There is also now a
of great help in providing child care and convincing evidence that the occurring within a relatively short from overseas sources, the parent growing sense of urgency to sponsor
thus allowing their US citizen chil- permanent resident has abandoned period of time. If as in (b) the length is generally required to report their a parent sooner than later in light of
dren to work and pursue careers. that status, this burden may be easy of the visit is contingent upon the worldwide income on a Form 1040 the rhetoric from President Trump
Some senior parents may have to establish if the parent uses the occurrence of an event and is not resident US tax return. Moreover, to abolish chain migration, which
health issues, and having them near- green card to infrequently visit the fixed in time and if the event does all foreign financial accounts with a includes the ability of naturalized
by gives a sense of security in case US rather than reside in the US. not occur within a relatively short value in excess of $10,000 must be citizens to sponsor parents. Howev-
of emergencies. Other parents can In order to stave off a finding period of time, the visit will be con- reported every year. It behooves a er, for that to happen, Congress will
also pursue new careers or hobbies of abandonment, a green card hold- sidered a “temporary visit abroad” parent in this situation to consult need to change the law and that is
once they immigrate to the US. er must demonstrate that the trip only if the alien has a continuous, with a tax advisor to ensure that they not likely to happen anytime soon in
Many parents may already abroad was temporary. Returning uninterrupted intention to return to are not taxed in both countries. a highly polarized Congress. What
have multiple entry visitor visas, or back to the US annually may not the United States during the visit. There are many other import- is more imminent is a proposed
be able to travel on visa waivers, meet the definition of a temporary Since the a trip abroad must ant considerations. The parent will rule that will change the definition
and visit their children once a year trip abroad. Many are under the be of finite duration, or at must ter- have to adapt to a completely differ- of who is likely to become a pub-
or even more frequently. These misimpression that returning to the minate upon the occurrence of an ent lifestyle in the US. For instance, lic charge under INA § 212(a)(4),
parents who already have access to US within six months would elim- event likely to occur within a short in order to be able to get around, be- which might create more obstacles
the US through visitor visas need inate a finding of abandonment. period of time, many parents who ing able to drive in many parts of the for senior parents to qualify for the
to carefully consider whether it is While a permanent resident is only use the green card as a tourist visa US outside major metropolitan ar- green card. Already, the State De-
prudent to obtain lawful permanent regarded as seeking admission if frequently face intrusive inspections eas is essential. There is also no free partment has amended the Foreign
by CBP officers at ports of entry. health insurance for a newly minted Affairs Manual to give consular offi-
Many are warned to apply for a green card holder. The parent will cers more discretion in making pub-
reentry permit if they continue to have to purchase private health in- lic charge determinations notwith-
infrequently return to the US. INA surance, and can do so on a health standing the submission of a Form
§ 223 provides the authority to the exchange under the Affordable I-864 affidavit of support.
Department of Homeland Security Care Act, and there might be sub- When everything is considered
to issue a reentry permit for a pe- sidies available based on income. and an informed decision is made,
riod not more than two years. See As of January 1, 2019, it is no longer maintaining the green card will be
also 8 CFR 8 CFR § 223.2(c)(2). mandatory for a lawful permanent smoother and not so burdensome.
While the reentry permit can serve resident to have health insurance After five years from the issuance
as an insurance policy against such under the ACA as there is no longer of the green card, the parent will
an aggressive inspection at a port of any tax penalty for failure to do so. be able to apply for US citizenship
entry, this document will not entire- Green card holders have to wait for provided they have been physically
ly immunize the parent from a find- 5 years before they become becomes present for half the time in the five
ing of abandonment. While length eligible for Medicare. The parent years preceding the filing of the
of time may not be used against must be 65 or older and must have naturalization application and they
the green card holder with a valid worked for 40 quarters. Most new have also been continuously resid-
reentry permit in a finding of aban- green card holders would not have ing during this period.
donment, other activities reflecting worked 40 quarters, and they may Upon being naturalized, a US
abandonment may be considered. buy in to Medicare after they be- citizen is no longer subject to resi-
The reentry permit is burden- come eligible. The rules regarding dency requirements. If on the oth-
some to maintain for a senior parent Medicaid for low income green card er hand, the parent has a change
who visits the US a few weeks each holders are complex and confusing, of heart and does not wish to be a
year. Form I-131 must be filed only and depend on a person’s income, permanent resident of the US, it is
while the parent is physically pres- age and the rules of each state. The best that the parent formally aban-
ent in the US, and then the parent sponsor’s income on the affidavit of don that status by filing Form I-407,
m of must wait a few weeks for the bio- support may also be deemed to the otherwise IRS will still consider the
CYRUS D. MEHTA & PARTNERS PLLC metrics appointment. If the parent parent’s income. Further informa- parent a resident alien for tax pur-
is unable to wait for the biometrics
tion is available here.
poses.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Cyrus D. Mehta, a graduate of Cambridge University and Columbia Law School, is the Managing Partner of Cyrus D. Mehta
& Partners PLLC in New York City. Mr. Mehta is a member of AILA’s Administrative Litigation Task Force; AILA’s EB-5
Committee; former chair of AILA’s Ethics Committee; special counsel on immigration matters to the Departmental Disciplinary
Committee, Appellate Division, First Department, New York; member of the ABA Commission on Immigration; board member
of Volunteers for Legal Services and board member of New York Immigration Coalition. Mr. Mehta is the former chair of the
Board of Trustees of the American Immigration Council and former chair of the Committee on Immigration and Nationality
Law of the New York City Bar Association. He is a frequent speaker and writer on various immigration-related issues, including
on ethics, and is also an adjunct professor of law at Brooklyn Law School, where he teaches a course entitled Immigration and
Work. Mr. Mehta received the AILA 2018 Edith Lowenstein Memorial Award for advancing the practice of immigration law
and the AILA 2011 Michael Maggio Memorial Award for his outstanding efforts in providing pro bono representation in the
immigration field. He has also received two AILA Presidential Commendations in 2010 and 2016. Mr. Mehta is ranked among
2 6th Floor the most highly regarded lawyers in North America by Who’s Who Legal – Corporate Immigration Law 2019 and is also ranked
in Chambers USA and Chambers Global 2019 in immigration law, among other rankings.
www.TheIndianEYE .us
46 The Indian Eye JUNE 12, 2020
www.TheIndianEYE .us
The Indian Eye
JUNE 12, 2020 47
www.TheIndianEYE .us
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