India’s Race Problem: Ignorance and Denial

Racist attacks against Africans and the latter’s measured reaction made headlines in the Indian media in March–April this year. Responding to the deplorable incidents of violence against African students, the African community in India called for an independent investigation, while envoys from African countries sought a UN-level investigation. African diplomats also urged India to join fight against racism. To his credit, Mali’s Ambassador to India said the attacks should not ‘divide’ Africa and India. Rather, he urged India to educate citizens about African culture and history (The Hindu, 5 April 2017). Racist incidents against Africans in India noted above are not isolated episodes. Africans visiting or living in India confront racism on daily basis.