Anglo Indians proud of Elvis’ expose
With the nominated MLA Elvis Stephenson’s written complaint to the anti-corruption branch of Telangana Police and the consequent arrest of TDP MLA A Revanth Reddy who was caught trying to bribe Elvis has turned the nominated MLA into a hero overnight. The Anglo Indian community in the city is on a high and is basking in glory
Nominated MLA Elvis Stephenson, who represents the community in the Telangana Assembly, refused bribe from TDP MLA Revanth Reddy
With the nominated MLA Elvis Stephenson’s written complaint to the anti-corruption branch of Telangana Police and the consequent arrest of TDP MLA A Revanth Reddy who was caught trying to bribe Elvis has turned the nominated MLA into a hero overnight. The Anglo Indian community in the city is on a high and is basking in glory.
“We are a small fun-loving community and Elvis’s act shows that we stand for uprightness. The Anglo Indians have contributed a great deal in the development of the nation be it in Railways, Posts & Telegraphs, teaching and nursing. This act has put the Anglo Indians right back in focus,” says David Skinner who works at the Catholic Health Association of India in Secunderabad.
From Lalaguda to Lancer Barracks, Sainikpuri to Srinagar Colony, the 10,000 odd Anglo Indians in the city are a happy lot. Teresa Michael, a close relative of Elvis Stephenson, says, “It is a courageous act and we are all proud of him.” Elvis Stephenson was always interested in community service even as he dabbled in small businesses.
He was into catering business for sometime in Rifle Gunj. God fearing and active in church activities, Elvis always made it a point to attend to anyone in need. David Skinner recollects, “When we wanted him to come for a programme at CHAI he immediately agreed.”
Ex-MLA Christine Lazarus, who held the nominated post, said, “He has taken a big risk and it takes a great deal of courage and guts. He should now use this opportunity to use his position and do things for the community. He should use the platform to fight for housing, education and employment.”
“What makes the act even more important is the fact that the expose’ would in all probability be the final nail in the TDP’s coffin as far as Telangana is concerned,” opines Rosy, a resident of Mettuguda.The otherwise quiet Anglo Indian community seems to have received a fillip and sees hope. The residents in Lalaguda have been talking about the arrest of A Revanth Reddy and the brave act of Elvis in the past two days.
Not very long ago the Anglo Indian community in the twin cities was in large numbers but from the 80s many started migrating to Australia, Canada and England. What remain are just about 10,000 of them in the city. The sudden limelight of Elvis Stephenson is being viewed with great admiration and hope for a community that is slowly dwindling in number.
By:T P Venu
