The remaining Bnei Menashe community of northeast India practice Modern Orthodox Judaism, yet have still not been converted to Orthodox Judaism over objections by the government of India. There are in total 10 000 Bnei Menashe, almost half of whom have been permitted to move to Israel and convert to Orthodox Judaism in Israel. The remainder have been left for many years in India waiting to be allowed to immigrate to Israel. They are only gradually being allowed to immigrate to Israel over the years in groups of hundreds.
This is a cruel and unnecessary treatment by the government of Israel. The Bnei Menashe are faithful Religious Zionists and there is no doubt about their commitment to Israel, Judaism and Zionism and they do contribute to Israel’s economy once in Israel. There is no reason whatsoever why they should have to wait for years in India before coming to Israel. They should instead all be brought en masse to Israel to complete their long respective processes of conversion to Judaism. The sooner the better. Am Israel Chai!