Venkat Raman
A continuous dialogue on Interfaith articulated by the government, concerted efforts of City Councils to further the cause of communities, and increased visibility of the Police in places of worship and other areas of public congregation are among the measures that would instil a feeing of security among people.
These were the views of Pakistan Association of New Zealand (PANZ) President Naveed Hameed, echoing the feelings of his community in Auckland.
The terrorist attack that left 50 persons dead and another 50 persons seriously injured while they were praying in two Mosques in Christchurch on Friday, March 15, 2019 took away the lives of nine people of Pakistani origin. While the benevolent response of Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has been appeasing, the community needs reassurance.
Pronounced solidarity
Mr Hameed said that the solidarity of New Zealanders has been pronounced with widespread condemnation of the terrorist attack and Kiwi women covering their head with scarf have been comforting.
“However, Muslims are scared that they will be attacked in Mosques and this fear complex may spread to people praying in Temples, Churches, Gurdwaras and other places of worship. We would like the increased visibility of armed Police for some more time,” he said.
“The Pakistani community is keen to promote New Zealand as a safe and secure country and will work with everyone to achieve this objective. We respect all cultures and traditions that make us a unique nation of diverse but united people,” Mr Hameed said.
Fears allayed
Former PANZ President Adnan Mirza allayed the fears, saying that there is no need for any alarm or additional security.
“I mourn the death of my Muslim brothers and sisters. Pakistan as a country has stood by New Zealand and our Prime Minister Imran Khan has conveyed the condolences of all Pakistanis to Ms Ardern,” he said.
His father, Mohammed Imtiaz Mirza, said, “The whole world has appreciated the spirit of togetherness and empathy shown by all New Zealanders following the massacre in Christchurch. I believe that the actions of the Prime Minister and the New Zealand Police have had positive impact and New Zealanders are today more confident,” he said.
His mother Shahida Yesmeen Butt said that she joined millions of people in praying for the departed souls.
“I was moved to tears. Someone lost a wife, husband and children; all of us have lost our brothers and sisters,” she said.
Mr Adnan’s wife Farah Rais Alvi said that the issue at hand is how to reconcile and move forward. “What happened in Christchurch was not ordinary and what happened afterwards was extraordinary. Our Prime Minister has rewritten history by doing what no one has ever done before,” she said.
