The supreme temporal seat of Sikhism, the Akal Takht, and the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) have issued strong condemnations following an act of disruption targeting a Sikh religious procession in New Zealand. The incident, where a far-right Christian group interfered with a Nagar Kirtan in Manurewa town of South Auckland, has been labeled as a deliberate attempt to create a hateful atmosphere.
Sharp Criticism from Sikh Leadership
Giani Kuldip Singh Gargaj, the officiating jathedar of Akal Takht, did not mince words in his response. He characterized the individuals involved as "mischievous" persons who intentionally misused local customs and traditions of New Zealand to challenge the Sikh community. Emphasizing the peaceful nature of Sikh practices, he stated that Nagar Kirtans are organized only after securing all necessary official permissions. Therefore, he stressed that it becomes the duty of the local administration to guarantee a safe and secure environment for such events.
"Sikhs respect all religions and faiths, and likewise, it is the responsibility of others to respect the religious freedom of Sikhs," asserted Giani Gargaj. He called upon the New Zealand government to take firm action against such elements who aim to sow bitterness and disrupt the hard-earned communal harmony.
Calls for Diplomatic and Community Action
The officiating jathedar revealed that the management committees of 25 gurdwaras in New Zealand have been in constant touch with local government and police officials regarding the matter. He provided crucial context, noting that the local Maori community has historically lived in harmony with Sikhs, and this incident seems to be the isolated work of a single disruptive group.
To address the issue proactively, Giani Gargaj issued directives to Sikh leaders in New Zealand. He asked them to initiate dialogue with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, local government leaders, and senior figures from the Māori community. The objective of these talks would be to discuss the incident and educate them about Sikh values and traditions. Furthermore, he appealed directly to PM Luxon, Foreign Minister Winston Peters, and India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar to pay special attention to this matter. He urged them to ensure that such mischievous elements are not allowed to damage the spirit of cooperation and harmony between India, New Zealand, and their respective communities.
SGPC Labels Incident 'Extremely Painful'
Echoing the sentiments from Amritsar, SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami described the event as extremely painful and a serious cause for concern. Dhami appealed to the governments of both New Zealand and India to take serious note of the situation and ensure a safe and supportive environment for the Sikh community abroad.
He underscored that religious freedom and mutual respect are the foundational pillars of any successful multicultural society. Joining the call for dialogue, Dhami urged prominent Sikhs in New Zealand to engage with the local government and even with the groups that opposed the event. He advocated for an amicable resolution guided by the teachings of the Sikh Gurus, ensuring that an atmosphere of bitterness is actively avoided.
Both institutions have assured the Sikh community in New Zealand of their full support in navigating this challenge and safeguarding their right to religious practice.
