Leaders of the Indian community in Australia have strongly condemned the recent attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney, while emphatically distancing themselves from the two accused individuals. Community representatives stated they had no prior knowledge of Sajid Akram and Naveed Akram, who have been identified in connection with the violent incident.
Community Leaders Express Shock and Condemnation
In conversations with the media from Sydney, Muhammad Arshad Khan, the chairman of the Indian Muslim Association of Australia, revealed that despite his active involvement in community affairs for decades, he had never come across the accused or their family. Khan migrated to Australia in February 1998 and has been a part of the community since that time.
"I had never heard of them before this attack. They are not even registered with our association," Khan stated. He described such individuals as often living in isolation and was unequivocal in his condemnation. "We condemn this act and stand in solidarity with our fellow Australians," he added, reflecting the sentiment of a community deeply integrated into Australian society.
Origins Confirmed, Image Concerns Raised
On December 16, police in Telangana confirmed that one of the accused, Sajid Akram, originally hailed from Hyderabad and had migrated to Australia approximately 27 years ago. This revelation has sparked concern among various Indian associations about the potential for such isolated incidents to tarnish the reputation of the wider Indian diaspora.
For decades, the Indian community has largely coexisted peacefully within the Australian social fabric, even amidst broader national debates on immigration. The Indian Crescent Society of Australia, which estimates that around 1.2 lakh Indian Muslims live in Australia, issued a statement echoing this anxiety. "Violence has no place in our society, and attacks on public spaces strike at the very heart of community safety and trust," the statement read.
Hyderabadi Group Organises Support Drive
In a direct response to the tragedy, several community groups are mobilising to offer support to the victims and their families. Leading this effort is the Deccan Australian Welfare Association (DAWA), a group with strong ties to Hyderabad.
DAWA has announced plans to organise a blood donation drive in collaboration with the Australian Red Cross. Mustafa Mohiuddin, the president of DAWA, explained the initiative, stating, "The impact of this tragedy has been felt deeply across the entire DAWA Hyderabadi community."
He described the drive as a "tangible expression of our solidarity and shared humanity" aimed at providing practical support to those injured and in need. Mohiuddin has urged all community members to participate actively in this effort to help the victims recover.
The swift condemnation from community leaders and the proactive steps towards supporting victims underscore the Indian diaspora's commitment to peace, cohesion, and the well-being of the broader Australian society they call home.
