Wellington: A shocking incident has come to light in South Auckland, New Zealand, where a Sikh religious procession was stopped. Local protesters stood in the path of the procession and blocked the road. The protesters held banners that read, "This is New Zealand, not India." Sikh groups have condemned the incident, calling it an attack on religious freedom. According to reports, the incident occurred on Sunday during a Nagar Kirtan (religious procession). The procession was starting from Gurdwara Nanaksar Thath Ishwar Darbar in Manurewa. The procession was stopped while it was returning. This incident has angered Sikh groups.
Attack on religious freedom
Reacting to the incident, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal called it an attack on religious freedom. Badal wrote on X, "I strongly condemn the obstruction of the peaceful Nagar Kirtan procession by local protesters in South Auckland, New Zealand yesterday. Nagar Kirtan is a sacred Sikh tradition – it is a joyous religious procession where hymns from Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji are sung, promoting devotion, unity, and sharing blessings with all of humanity."
Procession route blocked, then they performed a dance
According to reports, a group of about 30 to 35 local youths arrived with banners and blocked the path of the procession. During this time, they performed the Haka dance. The Haka is a traditional Maori dance that historically involves war rituals and strong physical movements.
Police arrived at the scene and intervened to control the situation. After negotiations, the protesters moved aside, after which the Nagar Kirtan proceeded and safely returned to the Gurdwara. Local Sikh leaders were also present with the procession during this time. The incident has raised concerns among members of the Sikh community living in New Zealand regarding the safety of their religious beliefs.
Demand for intervention from India
Shiromani Akali Dal chief Sukhbir Singh Badal appealed to Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to raise the issue with the New Zealand government to ensure the safety and religious rights of the Indian community and prevent such incidents in the future. Badal said that such acts of intimidation are a threat to religious freedom and the spirit of universal brotherhood.
