MIC (Malaysian Indian Congress) was formed in 1946 to represent the needs and claims of ethnic Indians. The existence and electoral strength of this party was not obvious until it became a member of the coalition - the Alliance - before the 1955 general elections. This was after the electoral pact between MCA and Umno in 1951.

Representating a minority ethno-linguistic group, it has always been apportioned a limited number of parliamentary and state legislative assembly seats. Since independence, the majority of this ethno-linguistic group has shown undivided support for the government led by Umno, the dominant political entity in Barisan Nasional.

There are individuals among this ethnic group who have since formed or joined some other political parties. But the fact remains that a dominant faction of this ethnic group still support BN. Umno patronage has been significant among ethnic Indians owing to the traditional party effect where MIC together with Umno have been component parties of the Alliance since independence. This has augured well for this minority group.

Unfortunately, of late there are some ethnic Indians who have become so perplexed that they end up as political 'diaspora' within the nation - trying hard to identify themselves in non-Indian-based political parties in the country. Much to their disappointment, they are merely used as tools to make the number for those respective political parties. There exists not a single instance wherein these non-Indian-based political parties have taken up any issue that concerns the welfare of the Indian community as compared to what MIC and its leaders have done. No matter what others say about the MIC leadership, I dare insist that they are sincere and unselfish in seeing their community progress in life.

No one can deny the fact that ethnic Indians have made some progress compared to the days when the country first gained independence. However, MIC and the government are also aware that a minority of them, especially those who have lived long in the estates and those living as urban squatters, are still deprived of a decent livelihood. Some are exposed to social ills such as alcoholism and gangsterism partly due to poverty, low self-esteem and lack of proper education.

Leaders may come and go but the problems faced by this ethnic group should not be solely blamed on the leaders. Many may find it a thrill to condemn and criticise but those who are given the mandate to improve the lots are the most burdened with responsibilities.

A successful community can only be created if people are willing to help each other, adopt an optimistic mindset and have the willpower to succeed. Continually deriding others without much contribution on one's part will only pave the way to ruin.

The Indian community needs a lot of guidance from those who have 'made it' in life. The community needs the support and motivation from those successful Indians and other races to elevate them to a relatively better position in society, giving them a decent livelihood.

In politics, numbers count. For Indians - irrespective of origin or religion - the best means to air their grievances and seek help from the government is still through the MIC. They should unite under one flag. Associating themselves with other non-Indian based political entities would only marginalise them further.