Despite attacks, Indians queueing to become Australian citizens...

Despite all the reports of violence against Indians, hundreds of them are becoming Australian citizens, making India the third most represented country, followed by Britain and China, for people receiving their citizenship.

Alisha D'Souza and her twin sister, Binaisha, 19, could not contain their excitement as they took their oath at a citizenship ceremony on Tuesday at Brimbank City Council, the second largest municipality in Melbourne.

"We feel privileged to have been granted citizenship and to be more a part of this multi-cultural society. It took some time to adjust, but now we call this home. Australians are very accepting of different cultures, they tend to be more laid back and love sports. Our parents felt that it would provide us with better opportunities," Alisha, who is doing a Bachelor of Commerce degree at Melbourne University said.

In 2008-09, 9,088 Indians became Australian citizens. So have the spate of attacks on Indians and the ensuing media publicity impacted their life? More...

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