Friends, I am just overwhelmed by all the messages of support and encouragement that I have received. It is impossible for me to reply to each one of you but please do know that I am grateful for your feedback. #congresshearing
Let me give a bit of background info. I got to know about the hearing on Tuesday 12th, Nov.The hearing was on Thursday, 14th Nov. I was shocked when I saw the names of the panelists. Without a counter narrative this was going to be a one sided India bashing fest #congresshearing
It was too late to do anything so at this point I put out a series of tweets calling the commission for its bias if they did nothing to include a counter narrative. A hearing like this where only one side speaks is not a hearing but a living room conversation #congresshearing
I don't know what happened but on Wednesday morning I received an invitation to testify in Washington DC. I had about 24 hours to prepare, figure out logistics, get my thoughts together and get ready to face the most hostile panel that I have ever been on. #congresshearing
I knew I was going to be a minority of one. I knew that I was putting myself in front of a firing squad. But retreat has never been an option. Most people around me were worried and clearly told me I had chosen voluntary suicide. #congresshearing
Deep in my heart I knew this was one opportunity to put across our story in US Congress. I knew one misspoken word, one mistake and it would haunt me forever. Conversely if I succeeded it would be all worth the effort #congresshearing
When I reached the Capitol Hill I was shaking with nervousness. Close friends ( you know who you are) stood by me like a rock.I was worried I had not had enough time to prepare. But I learnt when you are on the side of the truth, you really don't need to prepare. #congresshearing
Just before entering the room where hearing was to be held, I spoke to my mother in India. The nervousness lasted only till I started speaking. After that I have no recollection of what happened. Opening statement was written. Nothing else was. #congresshearing
I must thank Chairman of the Commission @RepMcGovern for being fair in conducting the hearing. He gave me enough time and even though it was a lopsided panel, I was given time for interventions and rebuttals. I will be very thankful for that. #congresshearing
Finally, such things never happen without support of good friends and like minded people. This was also result of an immense community effort. My deepest gratitude to all. #congresshearing
