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Immigration

Desis in Kenya feel the effects of violence

By: Santosh :+: Under: Immigration
On: ⋅ January 2, 2008 ⋅  Email this post ⋅  Print this post ⋅ Post a comment
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People of Indian origin living in Kenya, mostly Gujaratis, are feeling the effects of the ethnic violence sweeping the nation after last week’s election results were announced, but are largely safe. [link]

People of Indian origin hard hit by riots in Kenya
img: via CNN-IBN

The violence in Kenya seems to read like it was right out of an Indian newspaper. Supporters of the opposition leader, Raila Odinga, are upset over the victory of President, Mwai Kibaki, because they believe he was cheated of victory and have gone on a rioting spree. It should be pointed that the two opponents represent different ethnic groups. Kenya has a sizable minority ethnic Indian population (unrelated to the above mentioned ethnic groups), largely Gujaratis, who have been caught in the crossfire.

While they are mostly unharmed physically, some of them have taken shelters in temples, which are quickly running out of food and water. Even more worrisome is the fact that the rioters have not shown themselves to be above attacking holy places, as evidenced by the arson of a church that killed at least 30 locals. There are conflicting reports on whether people of Indian origin are being targeted or not, with Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs Vayalar Ravi stating they are not, while Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi claims otherwise. Either way, not a safe situation for the Indian diaspora in that region.

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