Newzealand and Indian governments should consider the matter seriously
AMRITSAR: The peaceful and religiously-decorated Nagar Kirtan of Sikhs in New Zealand has been opposed by some locals, which is extremely saddening and worrying.
The President of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, Advocate Harjinder Singh Dhami, expressed deep concern over this matter and said that the Sikh community has always been making exemplary contributions to the welfare, peace, tolerance and progress of the world community, but despite this, it is highly condemnable to view the religious traditions of the Sikhs with a hateful attitude.
Advocate Dhami said that the foundation of Sikhism is based on the welfare of all, brotherhood and service to humanity. Nagar Kirtan is a sacred religious tradition of Sikhism which gives a message of mutual understanding, love and unity in the society. Opposing such religious events is a direct blow to the universal message of the Gurus.
He said that the Sikh community living in different countries around the world has always lived in harmony with the local people and has fully respected the laws and local culture of each country. During Sikh events, the message of the welfare of humanity is given through langar and selfless service, which strengthens social cohesion.
The SGPC President appealed to the governments of New Zealand and India to take serious note of this matter and provide a safe and supportive environment for the Sikh community to hold events in accordance with their religious rights.
He said that religious freedom and mutual respect are the true identity of any multicultural society.
Advocate Harjinder Singh Dhami also appealed to the leading Sikhs of New Zealand to sit down with the government and the protesting people and discuss the incident. He said that efforts should be made to deal with this issue within the guidelines of the Guru's teachings and an atmosphere of bitterness should be avoided.