Protest against Nagar Kirtan in New Zealand challenges social harmony of global community: Advocate Dhami

Amritsar (The Uttam Hindu): Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) president Advocate Harjinder Singh Dhami on Sunday reacted strongly to protests by some local groups in New Zealand against a peaceful Sikh Nagar Kirtan, calling the incident unfortunate and deeply concerning.

Expressing serious concern, Advocate Dhami said the Sikh community has always made exemplary contributions toward global welfare, peace, tolerance, and progress. Despite this, viewing Sikh religious traditions with hatred is highly condemnable, he added.

He stated that Sikhism is founded on the principles of universal welfare, brotherhood, and service to humanity. Nagar Kirtan is a sacred Sikh religious tradition that spreads messages of mutual understanding, love, and unity in society. Opposing such religious events, he said, is a direct attack on the universal teachings of the Sikh Gurus.

Advocate Dhami further said that Sikh communities living across the world have always coexisted peacefully with local populations while fully respecting the laws and cultures of their host countries. Through langar and selfless service during Sikh religious programs, the community promotes humanitarian values and strengthens social unity.

The SGPC president urged the New Zealand authorities and the central government to take the matter seriously and ensure a safe and supportive environment for the Sikh community to organize religious events in accordance with their faith. He emphasized that religious freedom and mutual respect are the true foundations of any multicultural society. He also said that efforts should be made to address such issues in the light of the Gurus’ teachings and avoid creating an atmosphere of hostility.