Minister of state (MoS) for external affairs V.K.
Minister of state (MoS) for external affairs V.K. Singh’s reference to the attack on African nationals as a “minor scuffle” is bound to infuriate African nations which had stated that the problems of “racism and Afro-phobia” exist in India. Following the attacks, some African envoys have once again demanded that the Indian government crack down on the culprits. According to TV reports, the Kenyan envoy on Sunday demanded that India must act firmly to prevent more attacks against Africans.
With tempers running high among the African nations, the government moved in to help the family of the Congolese national who was killed on May 20. “In the unfortunate death of Mr Masunda Oliver, the government will assist his family to travel to India to receive his mortal remains. We will also arrange for his mortal remains to be transported to DR Congo at our expense,” MEA spokesperson Vikas Swarup tweeted.
The government is worried since the attacks may cast a shadow on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visits to African countries this year. It is being speculated that Mr Modi may visit Kenya, Mozambique and South Africa in the coming weeks.
The home minister too had tweeted on Sunday morning. “Spoke to Commissioner of Police (CP), Delhi, regarding the incident of physical assault against certain African nationals in New Delhi. Such incidents are condemnable. Instructed CP Delhi to take strict action against the attackers and increase police patrolling in these areas to ensure security of everyone,” Mr Rajnath Singh tweeted.
