(Photo from Bollywood Hungama)
Auckland, March 19, 2022
The United Communities for Peace, a recently formed group of Muslims, Sikhs and Hindus, have appealed to all New Zealanders to keep peace, mutual respect and understanding as to the classification of the Indian film, ‘Kashmir Files, is debated in New Zealand.
UCP Chairman and senior community leader Prithi Pal Singh said that the Group acknowledges that this movie stirred active discussion amongst various communities, both in respect of its release, with calls for reclassification of its Rating and a total ban.
“The decision rests with key agencies including the Classifications Office and we ask that communities engage through formal processes to have their voices heard. Those keen on expressing their views may please do so through this link:
https://www.classificationoffice.govt.nz/about/contact/
Mr Singh said that all the members of the United Communities Group have confidence in the democratic institutions of the New Zealand government to make the right decision and to peacefully abide by the decision of the concerned authorities relating to this movie.
“We are fortunate to live in one of the most peaceful and transparent countries in the world, where our rights, safety and freedoms are protected and our human rights and the rule of law is celebrated. Many of us have moved to New Zealand for the purpose of living a peaceful life having migrated from countries that did not afford us the opportunities that New Zealand has. While our connections and sympathies to issues that are actively taking place overseas still impact and affect us personally, and we must actively do our part in trying to help, we should not import those divisive issues into New Zealand. We do not want hatred and international conflicts to develop here. We should rather lead by example and seek solutions through understanding, mutual respect and dialogue, both in-person and online platforms and build a new united legacy,” he said.
Mr Singh said that the members of the UCP will be meeting with the representatives of communities living in New Zealand affected by what has occurred in Kashmir.
“We will seek to share their feelings, thoughts, dialogue and understand and through these small but tangible ways to begin the healing process and promote peaceful coexistence amongst our diverse communities in Aotearoa New Zealand,” he said.
About United Communities for Peace
The United Communities for Peace is a group made up of respected representatives from the Hindu, Muslim and Sikh communities whose purpose is to promote peace, harmony, understanding and cooperation among ethnic communities. The Group will work with various communities to seek common solutions to common challenges. The Group will not interfere in the internal affairs of communities but articulate a shared vision, values and commitment to promoting a respectful and constructive relationship.
Established in December 2021, the United Communities for Peace is chaired by Priti Pal Singh, a doyen of the Indian community and a pioneer in promoting social welfare for almost 55 years in New Zealand.
Among the Members of the UCP are Prithi Pal Singh, Daljit Singh, Neetu Kaur, Sarabjeet Kaur (Sikh Community), Dr Mustafa Farouk, Ibrar Sheikh, Aliya Danzeisen, Munira Khanum (Muslim Community), Vinod Kumar, Ranjna Patel, Nitika Sharma and Venkat Raman (Hindu Community).
For media inquiries and interviews, please email Prithipal Singh ppsingh@xtra.co.nz
