The largest umbrella organization of overseas Indians has urged the Indian government to remove a proposal to impose tax on non-resident Indians (NRI) staying over 60 days during a visit to the homeland.

It’s going to be detrimental to the interests of NRIs who make contributions considerably to the country’s progression, the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) stated in a resolution adopted during its biennial conference in Iselin, New Jersey earlier this month.

In various other resolutions, GOPIO made a plea for a mechanism to enable NRIs to voice their issues, nomination of a few prominent NRIs to the Rajya Sabha, initiation of suitable actions to set up fast track courts to deal with the increasing number of property offences aiming for NRIs and steps for quick disposal of cases involving custody of children of NRI parents.

In addition, it urged the government to augment the staff strength of consulates for the ease of NRIs.

While welcoming the establishing of Global Advisory Council, GOPIO looked for representation for diaspora organizations in the council.

Extending all support to the” Know India Program” begun by the government, it wanted a GOPIO-Pravasi member committee to be established to kick-off the programme.

Observing that more and more job hunters from India are falling prey to unscrupulous elements abroad, GOPIO urged the government to have proper actions for the rehabilitation of such victims.

The organisation also urged the Government of India to finish the discriminatory practices against NRIs at archeological sites and hotels.

GOPIO has also expressed special thanks to the authorities in Bahrain to have prompt steps to safeguard the Indian community during the recent disturbances.