Safer families ensure happier Diwali

Gurpreet Arora

Auckland, October 16, 2024

Counties Manukau Police would like to wish Happy Diwali to everyone celebrating the festival of lights and Bandi Chhor Divas, a tribute to the Guru who saved the lives of 52 men without violence.

Diwali is a festival that takes you from darkness to light, from ignorance to knowledge.

By working with our ethnic service providers, community groups and individuals we are committed to increased awareness about family violence and are working towards eliminating family violence and sexual violence amongst ethnic communities.

Stressful Festival Season

In the lead-up to Diwali, many individuals and families find it overwhelming to meet social needs and societal expectations, such as buying new clothes, decorations, food, and travelling – resulting in stress. These stresses can compound and can contribute to the harm occurring within the family.

Family violence can include physical, verbal, psychological, elder abuse, financial or sexual abuse. It is not a private matter when people are being harmed.

Family violence cannot be tolerated under any circumstances and no culture supports violence of any kind to a human and, more so, a family member.

If you are in immediate danger and you cannot call us on the emergency number 111, leave your house and get out of harm’s way. Your safety comes first. Get to a safe distance and then ask a neighbour, or a passer-by to call 111 for you.

We also urge neighbours and friends to contact the Police if they have concerns. If you think something’s not right, it probably is not.

Police are there to help 24/7. Reach out. Seek help.

Remember, support is available if you need it and the following agencies have the language and cultural capability to meet your needs: