Washington, September 23, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Indian American community leaders raised concerns over immigration challenges affecting students, families and healthcare professionals during a meeting with US Congressman Jim McGovern in Massachusetts, while calling for greater civic engagement and sustained dialogue with elected representatives.
The meeting was held at the India Worcester Center in Shrewsbury on September 19 and brought together professionals, entrepreneurs, physicians and civic advocates from the Indian American community.
Participants discussed immigration, healthcare, economic opportunities, civic participation and India-US relations. They highlighted difficulties faced by students, families, medical professionals and other immigrants navigating the US immigration system, although the community did not identify specific immigration proposals in its statement on the meeting.
The discussion also focused on the growing political involvement of Indian Americans and the need for direct engagement with elected representatives from both major US political parties.
Participants said Indian Americans from different religions, generations and political viewpoints should have a meaningful voice in civic affairs. McGovern, a Democrat, represents Massachusetts’ 2nd Congressional District in the US House of Representatives.
The meeting also recalled the role of Indian Americans in building bipartisan support for the India-US Civil Nuclear Agreement. Ramesh Vishwanath Kapur, founder and president of the US India Security Council, said the agreement demonstrated what could be achieved through cooperation across party lines.
“The Civil Nuclear Agreement showed what is possible when Republicans and Democrats come together around a shared strategic vision,” Kapur said.
Community leader and Worcester City Councillor-at-Large Satya Mitra highlighted McGovern’s accessibility and engagement with constituents and encouraged Indian Americans to participate actively in civic life and speak publicly on issues affecting their communities.
Sahdev Passey also praised McGovern’s work with constituents and his efforts to remain accessible and responsive, according to the statement.
Participants called for sustained engagement between Indian American organisations and elected officials at the federal, state and local levels. They said the community could serve as a bridge between the United States and India because of its familiarity with the cultures, economies and institutions of both countries.
Technology, trade, energy, healthcare, education, defence and innovation were identified as areas where Indian Americans could contribute to stronger bilateral cooperation.
The participants also called for greater coordination among community organisations, business leaders, elected officials, civic advocates, students and younger generations, saying the goal should extend beyond voter participation to building a durable civic structure capable of engaging policymakers from both parties.
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