Venkat Raman
Auckland, November 2, 2024
A prominent leader of the Indian community has raised concerns over the inability of Immigration New Zealand to monitor the activities of visitors to New Zealand, especially those ‘dishonouring the sentiments of the people of a Nation.
New Zealand Indian Central Association President Narendra Bhana was referring to the recent protests by promoters of Khalistan, demanding a separate State in India.
One such protest was held outside the Mahatma Gandhi Centre in Eden Terrace, where the temporary office of the newly created Consulate General of India is located along with that of NZICA.
“These protests bring to light significant concerns regarding New Zealand Immigration Services. Despite a well-documented history of similar activities by the Khalistan groups overseas, there appears to have been no proactive measures by Immigration New Zealand to identify and monitor individuals with disruptive intentions entering New Zealand. The ease with which overseas groups have been able to promote divisive sentiments raises questions about the efficiency of immigration protocols and border security in identifying potential troublemakers,” he said in a press statement issued this evening.
Referendum on Khalistan
Describing the recent protests seeking public support for a Referendum on Khalistan on November 17, 2024 as a ‘failure,’ Mr Bhana said that the protesters were met with limited attention and notably, a lack of support from the local Punjabi community, a prominent strength within the Indian Diaspora in New Zealand.
“The Indian community in New Zealand has long been marked by its unity, harmony, and dedication to contributing positively to the nation’s social and economic landscape. The local Punjabi community, integral to the Indian Diaspora, has expressed its strong disapproval of the divisive agendas brought in by a small faction of visitors promoting the Khalistan cause. This disapproval reinforces the community’s commitment to unity and its respect for the values shared by all New Zealanders,” he said.
Appeal for Vigilance
Mr Bhana called on New Zealanders to maintain vigilance against attempts by what he called, ‘foreign influences’ to disturb peace and foster division.
“New Zealand prides itself on its multicultural harmony and inclusivity. The Indian community in New Zealand stands united in its resolve to reject external influences that do not align with the values of community and respect, which are central to the diverse cultures coexisting in this country,” he said.
Mr Bhana said that the NZICA is committed to working alongside law enforcement and immigration authorities to maintain the integrity and security of New Zealand’s multicultural society.
“The Association also calls on New Zealand Immigration Services to review its processes to better safeguard against individuals who seek to import conflict and division,” he said.
