The Government and people of India have strongly condemned the heinous terrorists
attacks in New York and Washington D.C. and have expressed their deepest sympathies
with the people of the United States. The President of India has called this
reprehensible act a crime not just against the United States, but against all
humanity. The Prime Minister has said that India stands with the United States
in this hour of adversity in its shared commitment to defeat the forces of terror
and has offered full cooperation in investigation s into this crime. Condemnation
of these terrorist attacks has come from all sections and members of Indian
society and the Indian-American community.
The Embassy of India has seen press reports regarding harassment of members
of the Sikh community and other Indians in the wake of the terrorists attacks
in New York and Washington D.C. The Indian Consulates have been asked to take
up any such cases of harassment with the local civic authorities. The Embassy
would like to emphasize that the Sikhs are a law abiding, peaceful and progressive
community from India. They are adherents of a modern, open and democratic faith.
Their outward appearance , which is a manifestation of their religious beliefs,
has made them victims of mistaken identity. Along with other Indians, they themselves
have been targets of terrorism, and have been known for acts of great heroism.
In this difficult hour, the prayers of all Indians and people of Indian origin
are with the bereaved families. We are confident that the American people
will find the strength and resilience to overcome this tragedy