We can expect more turbulence ahead in Indian diaspora politics

Source: The post is based on the article “We can expect more turbulence ahead in Indian diaspora politics” published in Live mint on 17th July 2023.

Syllabus: GS 2- Indian Diaspora

News: This article discusses the increasing complexity of diaspora politics. It suggests that Indian leaders should carefully engage with the diaspora to avoid exacerbating these issues while prioritizing the interests of Indian citizens abroad.

What is the impact of immigrants?

Impact on local societies: Immigrants often maintain deep connections with their home countries’ politics. For example, Indians living in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia have engaged in protests related to their homeland’s issues. However, this can lead to tension with local societies. Examples include communal violence in Leicester and inter-group clashes in Australia.

Effects on diaspora communities: These new immigrants may also upset social dynamics within the diaspora. An example is the tension between recent immigrants and older immigrants or second and third-generation members of the diaspora. The older generations worry about social equations with local societies being disturbed.

Political impact: The influence of immigrants can lead to radical political events. For instance, a 19-year-old Indian American attempted to attack the White House, expressing extreme political beliefs. This showcases the possible political risks related to immigrant populations.

Response from host nations: Host nations have started to respond to diaspora issues. For instance, Seattle City Council in the US outlawed caste discrimination after advocacy from diaspora civil society groups. This shows that immigrants can influence policy in their host countries.

What are the challenges created due to immigrants?

Increasing violence and unrest: Recent immigrants, staying engaged with their home countries’ politics, can cause incidents of violence and unrest in their host nations. For example, Pro-Khalistan protests in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia led to vandalism, arson, and rioting.

Inter-group conflicts: Inter-group conflicts between different generations or factions within the diaspora can occur. For instance, Hindu and Sikh communities in Australia got into fights due to political disagreements.

Potential for radicalization: There is a risk of political radicalization among immigrants. This was evident when a 19-year-old Indian American attempted an attack on the White House, showcasing the extreme ideologies he held.

Erosion of local societies: There is a concern that the actions of new immigrants may upset the social balance that older immigrants have established with local societies. This was a concern expressed by community leaders in Australia, Singapore, and the US.

Influence on host nations’ policies: Immigrants can have significant influence on the policies of their host nations. This was seen when Seattle City Council outlawed caste discrimination, responding to the advocacy of diaspora civil society groups, which could potentially cause tension in local societies.

What should be done?

Avoid conflation: Indian leaders should not conflate Indian origin with loyalty to India or sectarianism. They must respect individual identities of Indian-origin individuals in their adopted countries.

Careful engagement: Leaders engaging with the diaspora should move cautiously to avoid exacerbating community tensions.

Focus on citizens: The Indian government should prioritize the interests of its citizens abroad over any person with Indian heritage.

Awareness of risks: Leaders and civil society groups must stay alert to the potential risks involved with diaspora politics.