Indian Democratic Leader Assaulted in US

Shivanthi Sathanandan, a Democratic leader of Indian and Sri Lankan descent in Minnesota was brutally attacked by four young men during a carjacking outside her home, witnessed by her children. The incident left her with a broken leg, head lacerations, and bruises all over her body.

She shared her ordeal on Facebook, emphasizing the need for tougher crime laws and the removal of illegal guns from the streets.

During the attack, the assailants carried guns and held neighbors at gunpoint when they tried to help. Shivanthi’s young children were traumatized by the violence. Her car was later recovered, but no suspects have been arrested yet.

Shivanthi, known for her involvement in the Democratic party, had previously called for changes in the Minneapolis Police Department but now advocates for stronger law enforcement. She thanked those who came to her aid during the terrifying experience.

She holds a historic position as the first woman of color and the first South Asian woman elected as Second Vice Chair of Minnesota’s DFL. She has been actively engaged in the party since 2006 and has a background as a University of Minnesota graduate and daughter of immigrants.