There will be a four-way contest involving traditional archrivals Conservatives and Labour Party, the Lib-Dems and the United Kingdom Independent Party during the May 7 general elections in the U.K. This time around, the role of the three-million strong Indian diaspora will be quite crucial in deciding the political fortunes of British leaders, including those that are of Indian origin. Our cover story looks at the run-up to these elections.

Ever since 9/11, hate crimes in the USA have been on the rise. Mr Ami Bera, the lone Indian-American member in the US House of Representatives, is leading a Congressional effort along with other lawmakers to encourage the Department of Justice and the FBI to document hate crimes against Sikh and Hindus, among others. Since the September 11 attacks, many Americans, including Sikhs and Hindus, have been subjected to hate crimes and discrimination. Two Sikh Americans were shot and killed while out for a walk in Elk Grove, California, a part of Mr Bera's constituency. We take a look at communities that are at risk.

When Hollywood actor Harrison Ford of Star Wars and Indiana Jones fame crashed his single engine plane on a golf course next Santa Monica airport in California, guess who the rescuer was? Indian American doctor Sanjay Khurana golfing at the time on the 7th hole of the Penmar Golf Course followed his first instinct and rushed to the plane to ensure the pilot was safe. He dropped his clubs, ran to the crash site, and then his jaws popped open. The moaning pilot was none other than Ford, one of his favourite stars. Here's an account of the rescue.

Also in this issue you'll find stories from the older diaspora countries like Trinidad and Tobago, Mauritius, Kenya and Tanzania.

Happy reading.

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