The family of Olivier Masonda Ketanda — a Congolese national killed on May 20 following a brawl in Vasant Kunj area — is disappointed with the security for Africans living in Delhi. They fear that what happened to Olivier could happen to any other African in India.
“There is no security. Living in India is difficult. Earlier the situation seemed fine, but the way we are being treated now, we do not feel safe at all,” said Olivier’s cousin, Michelle, before meeting senior officials of External Affairs Ministry (MEA).
Michelle, who is a student in Delhi, avoided commenting when asked if he thought it was a racist attack on Olivier. However, he said racism is prevalent in India.
Fear factor
“I am scared. We are all scared. What happened to Olivier can happen to any one of us.” Michelle said the Indian government has promised them justice in the murder case, but he would wait and see when the trial begins and how much time it takes before justice is delivered.
MEA officials who had received Olivier’s uncle at the IGI Airport on Monday assured him of a speedy trial and prosecution of all those responsible for the crime.
From the airport, Oliver’s uncle visited AIIMS where the victim’s body was ready to be handed over to the family to be flown to Congo. However, the body would be flown after the government fulfils its promise to bear the monetary expenses of transportation.
