Desi Weekly News Digest 

 National News

South Asian North Texans Respond to Proposed Birthright Citizenship Changes

South Asian communities in North Texas are expressing concern over former President Donald Trump's proposal to limit birthright citizenship. Many families fear the potential impact on their children and future generations, especially those on temporary visas or green cards. Community organizations are hosting informational sessions and legal workshops to help navigate potential changes. (Dallas News)

Resignation and Reinstatement of DOGE Staffer Over Racist Posts

Marko Elez, a staff member of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) under Elon Musk, resigned after resurfaced social media posts revealed racist rhetoric against Indian tech workers. The posts called for a "eugenic immigration policy" and opposed the 1964 Civil Rights Act. However, following pressure from Vice President JD Vance and President Trump, Elez was reinstated. The move has sparked criticism over the administration's tolerance of extremist views within key government positions. (NBC News, Times of India, Washington Post)

Privacy Issues Alarm Citizens as DOGE Staffers Have Unauthorized Access to Federal Information

The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, has faced growing scrutiny over its hiring practices and internal security issues. The reinstatement of Marko Elez, a staffer with a history of racist online statements targeting Indian tech workers, has raised concerns about the vetting process for government officials in key policy positions. Additionally, reports suggest that DOGE operates with minimal oversight, allowing individuals with extremist views to influence policy decisions. Critics warn that the agency's lack of accountability and its connections to controversial figures could pose significant risks to national security and public trust.  (To learn how to protect your privacy, click here)

Indian-American Politician Kshama Sawant Denied Indian Visa

Seattle City Council member Kshama Sawant has been denied an Indian visa three times, which she claims is due to her outspoken criticism of the Modi government. Sawant, a democratic socialist, says her name appears on a "reject list," preventing her from visiting family and participating in grassroots movements in India. This incident raises concerns over India's visa policies for political critics. (Business Today)

Online Hate Against South Asian Americans on the Rise

A report by Stop AAPI Hate has found a steady increase in online hate speech directed at South Asian Americans, coinciding with the rise of political figures like Vice President Kamala Harris, Nikki Haley, and Vivek Ramaswamy. The report attributes this surge to divisive rhetoric and far-right disinformation campaigns. Community advocates urge stronger moderation policies from social media platforms. (Reuters)

 International News

Outrage Over Shackled Indian Deportees During Modi’s U.S. Visit

During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s U.S. visit, reports surfaced that Indian deportees were shackled while being repatriated. Human rights organizations and legal advocates have condemned the practice as inhumane and degrading. The Indian government has requested a full investigation into the treatment of deported Indian nationals. (Al Jazeera, CNN)

Impact of USAID Shutdown on India

The U.S. government’s decision to shut down the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is expected to disrupt multiple projects in India, particularly those related to health, education, and infrastructure. Experts warn that rural communities dependent on USAID-backed initiatives will be the hardest hit, with potential long-term effects on poverty alleviation programs. (Financial Express)

Culture Chandrika Tandon Wins Grammy Award

Indian-American artist Chandrika Tandon won the Grammy for Best New Age, Ambient, or Chant Album for her album Triveni. Tandon, a philanthropist and sister of former PepsiCo CEO Indra Nooyi, collaborated with South African flautist Wouter Kellerman and Japanese cellist Eru Matsumoto on the award-winning project. (India Currents)

South Asian Network Advocates Against Gender-Based Violence

The South Asian Network (SAN) recently organized a protest in Artesia, California, to show solidarity with victims of gender-based violence. The organization continues to push for culturally sensitive resources and policies to protect South Asian women and nonbinary individuals from domestic abuse. (South Asian Network)