Sahadeo — Racial discrimination fostered, rather than a reality

“Statistics appear to suggest allegations that the Indo-Trinidadian community, has been the target of crimes such as kidnappings and robberies. It is not my place to dismiss these fears of the Indo-Trinidadian community, even though I must say it has been my observation that in many instances, the sense of racial discrimination is fostered, rather than a reality.” These were the words of Minister in the Ministry of Finance Christine Sahadeo as she addressed the Maha Sabha crowd at the 160th  Indian Arrival Day programme at Crowne Plaza.

Religious activist and president of the El Dorado Shiv Mandir, Kumar Sammy, was honoured by the Maha Sabha for the work he has done to uplift dharma in the country. The event took place  Wednesday evening. Sahadeo said, “I must admit its preponderance is a cause of great worry to me. You see, there are already examples of knee jerk reactions and retaliations from our community to these fears that do not bode well for our continued success as a society.” She urged the Indo-Trinidadians to recommit themselves to nation building saying that we are at a crossroad in the country’s future. “It is with some degree of sadness and tremendous concern that I listen to statements made regarding political persecution and discrimination,” she added.

She told the huge audience that she has been accused of being a traitor to the people and called a “Putna.” And one who is out to bring hardship to some of the country’s allegedly most dispossessed people. “I cannot help but note that I too have experienced persecution recently, but ironically, at the hands of some of our own esteemed Indian leaders,” she said. She warned her detracters saying, “I stand here today undaunted, fearless, determined and committed to do what is right and serve the country — Be it as a minister, or a worker in the trenches.”

St Augustine MP, Winston Dookeran who also addressed the gathering said we must revisit the assumption upon which we are building the nation, and change the national watchwords of TT from discipline, tolerance, production to freedom, equality and justice. He noted that the country is experiencing a lot of political frustration eg, the Prime Minister fighting with the Chief Justice and the police are drawn into trivial matters such as the tea-room brawl. Secretary General of the Maha Sabha, Sat Maharaj who chaired the programme said that he has no faith in the national awards given out by the heads. “This is why we must award our own people for their achievements in life.