Indian Overseas Congress, Australia (IOCA) hosted a vibrant and engaging community reception in Sydney in honour of Imran Pratapgarhi, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and renowned Urdu poet, on Sun 7 September 2025 at the Allure Function Centre in Blacktown.
The event brought together a diverse cross-section of the Indian diaspora, community leaders, political representatives, and cultural enthusiasts to welcome Imran Pratpgarhi and hear his keynote address.
The reception served as reaffirmation of upholding democratic principles, promoting unity, secularism and resisting polarisation.
The event witnessed participation from several prominent leaders, including Anthony D’Adam, MLC, New South Wales Legislative Council, Susai Benjamin, Councillor, Wajib Ali, Former MLA, Rajasthan Legislative Assembly, Rajender Soni, Coordinator, AICC OBC Cell, Abbas Raza Alvi, President, Indian Crescent Society of Australia (ICSOA) and several other respected community leaders, and representatives from various cultural and civic organisations.
Imran Pratapgarhi delivered a deeply moving keynote address that seamlessly combined poetic artistry with political commentary. Through his stirring verses and eloquent speech, he reflected on the current socio-political landscape in India.
He emphasised the importance of diaspora voices in protecting democracy and secularism. He further expressed commitment to resisting the BJP-led government’s agenda and pledged to help reclaim the constitutional soul of India.
Throughout his speech, he received resounding applause and emotional resonance from the audience. The presence of Imran Pratapgarhi not only elevated the tone of the evening but also reinvigorated political consciousness within the Indian-Australian community.
Anthony D’Adam, MLC, New South Wales Legislative Council highlighted the urgent need to combat racism and divisiveness within societies. He highlighted the contribution of Indian community and standing firmly with Indian community on any anti-immigration stance of any group.
All other Community leaders and guest speakers echoed the same sentiments.
A special video address was delivered by Sam Pitroda, Global Chairman of the Indian Overseas Congress and former advisor to Prime Ministers Rajiv Gandhi and Manmohan Singh, who is also celebrated as the Father of Indian Telecommunications.
During the program, Gurjinder Singh (Gavy) was congratulated by Imran Pratapgarhi, MP, on his appointment as IOC Australia Youth National General Secretary, and acknowledged his ongoing and expanding contributions to community leadership and youth empowerment.
Manoj Sheoran, President IOC Australia expressed gratitude to all distinguished guests, attendees, volunteers, and IOC members who helped make the event a success.
As the evening came to a close, it left behind an enduring spirit of hope, unity, and shared purpose and collective message that fight for justice, equality, and democracy is ongoing—and the Indian diaspora will not be silent.
Indian Overseas Congress, Australia stands resolute in its mission and committed to provide platforms that amplify & unify diaspora voices, champion secular ideals, and oppose polarisation in all forms wherever it arises.
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