African, Northeastern students often face racial attacks

The murder of a 29-year-old Congolese national in Delhi was not the first time when the city saw racist attacks. Besides African nationals, students and people from Northeastern states often face similar ordeal everyday in the national capital.

“The African community is a victim of racism and we condemn the attack. We have a rich history of African migration to India stretching through ancient times. Thousands of students come to India every year for education,” said Dan, a native of Congo and pursuing BBA programme from a private university.

Another student, Maria, said: “Everyday, we have to tackle racism. People in the Metro and other public places take our photographs without our consent and laugh at us. People call us names and hurl abuses. We can’t even restrain such people as it will instigate fights.”

There have been several instances where locals have indulged in street fights with African nationals.

Even Olivier’s friends claimed that the entire community is stereotyped and labelled as criminals or drug peddlers. “We respect Indians. There are many Indians who are living happily in Congo. Indians can be seen applying for visa everyday. Our people fully respect Indians. We take full responsibility of their safety and security in our country. But here, the situation is completely different. How does it feel if Congolese people attack Indians,” Sam, a friend of Olivier, said. He demanded strict punishment and appreciated the police action.

Another acquaintance, Jonathan, said it is getting difficult to stay in Delhi as racist taunts and attacks on Africans are becoming an everyday affair.

People from Northeastern states said that Delhi’s racism is not the preserve of a particular neighbourhood or area, but runs rampant across the capital. To feel safe and to surround themselves with people from the N-E, they prefer staying in South and North Delhi areas like Munirka, Kotla Mubarakpur, Satya Niketan, Chirag Dilli and Majnu Ka Tila areas.

“The locals probably think we are not Indians because we look different. Or they probably think that since we are all by ourselves here, without any family to take care of us, we are weak. Hence, they can get away with making remarks at us or even attacking us physically,” said Gainingam Kriibve, a MNC employee.

Joint commissioner of police Robin Hibu said: “There is a dedicated helpline number for N-E people. We have around 26 WhatsApp groups and several Facebook pages to stay connected to them. Any compliant of racism or any other distress calls from N-E people are dealt with swiftly.”