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Indian American students create new political network

This year, that void has been filled with the formation of the Indian American Political Awareness Network -- an organization that offers Indian Americans the opportunity to become politically active.

"There is a serious problem in that many Indian Americans of this country are politically unaware of the issues that affect them," said Probir Mehta, an LSA sophomore and member of IAPAN.

Citing racism, sexism and lack of representatives in government as issues that IAPAN plans to address, Mehta said the group is "solely dedicated to political awareness."

A group of students laid the foundations for IAPAN last fall when they decided the campus needed an organization to concentrate on political issues involving Indian Americans.

On campus, the Indian American Student Association concentrates on social and volunteer work, Mehta said.

"I decided to join (IAPAN) because it's something different from IASA," said Shafali Dua, an LSA sophomore. "It's for issues that Indians face that you can't find in social things."

Harprit Bedi, former president of IASA, said he welcomes IAPAN.

"It builds a route for issues that need to be discussed -- it's good that it's here," Bedi said.

He added that he thinks it's reasonable for IASA to focus on social and community events.

IAPAN made its debut in late October when members participated in a boycott of the Nectarine Ballroom. Members are planning a conference that will focus on political awareness and the dual identity of Indian Americans.

IAPAN meets Mondays at 10 p.m. in East Quad's Madrigal Lounge.