Two prominent British Indian figures, Rami Ranger and Anil Bhanot, have been stripped of their CBE and OBE honors respectively. Both denounce the move as an attack on free speech, citing complaints related to their public statements.
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Anand Shah, an Indian-origin councilman from New Jersey, was apprehended along with 39 others for involvement in a large-scale illegal gambling ring. The operation, which included illegal poker games and online sports betting, allegedly amassed over $3 million in illicit profits. Shah faces charges of racketeering, money laundering, and conspiracy, potentially leading to a lengthy prison sentence if convicted.
UK MP Priti Patel condemned the Pahalgam attack as an act of terrorism, emphasizing the UK's unwavering support for India. She highlighted the long-standing security and counterterrorism partnerships between the two nations, questioning the government about potential links between the perpetrators and Pakistan-based LeT.
Kash Patel, nominated by President Trump, will appear before the US Senate on January 30 for confirmation as the next FBI Director. If confirmed, Patel would be the first Indian American to lead the agency. He shared his family's inspirational immigration story and stressed the importance of hard work and addressing national security, law enforcement, economy, and global diplomacy.
Gunalan Morgan, a Singaporean Tamil-language actor and radio DJ, was charged with multiple sex-related offences, including sexual communication with a minor. He faces additional charges for obstructing justice and voyeurism. Mediacorp has suspended and served a termination notice to Gunalan following his arrest. His next court appearance is scheduled for April 21.
A photo of US vice president-elect JD Vance with his wife Usha Vance's Indian family has gone viral, countering accusations of racism and showcasing his bond with Indian culture. Social media users praised his integration and shared a range of supportive reactions.
British MPs Barry Gardiner and Priti Patel raised concerns in the UK Parliament over violence against Hindus in Bangladesh, highlighting over 2,000 violent incidents and calling for urgent government discussions with Bangladeshi authorities to ensure protection, law and order, and freedom of religion for minority communities.
A 20-year-old Indian national is facing charges in Singapore for allegedly molesting a female cabin crew member on a flight. The incident occurred when the accused reportedly grabbed and pushed the crew member into a lavatory while she was assisting a passenger.
The Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF) raised concerns over ICE raids and deportations of Indian and Sikh youths in the US. Asylum seekers from the community face challenges and uncertainties. SALDEF urges vigilance, advises on rights, and works with advocacy groups to ensure fair processes. Hate crimes against Sikh Americans are also a growing issue.
A light aircraft crash off the coast of Ras Al Khaimah resulted in the deaths of a 26-year-old Indian-origin doctor and a Pakistani pilot on December 26. Dr Sulaymaan Al Majid, a clinical fellow in the UK, and the pilot, a 26-year-old woman, died shortly after takeoff. Investigations are ongoing.
In a significant event for Indian Americans, six leaders were sworn into the US House of Representatives, marking the largest representation of this community in history. US Congressman Ami Bera, who has served since 2013, noted the growth from being the sole Indian American member to now having six representatives, expressing excitement for further increases in the future.