Far-Right Group Disrupts Sikh Procession in South Auckland

A Sikh religious procession in South Auckland, New Zealand, faced significant disruption on Saturday, March 9, 2024, when a far-right group intervened. The event, organized by the Nanaksar Sikh Gurdwara, took place in Manurewa, where members of the True Patriots of New Zealand, associated with Pentecostal leader Brian Tamaki and the Destiny Church, blocked the procession’s path.

The demonstrators performed a traditional Maori Haka as a form of protest, preventing the Sikh community from proceeding. They displayed banners with messages such as “This is New Zealand, not India,” while donning shirts emblazoned with slogans like “Kiwis First” and “Keep New Zealand New Zealand.” The protesters also chanted religious phrases, including “One True God” and “Jesus, Jesus.”

Despite the provocative actions from the protesters, the Sikh community, including members known as Nihangs, maintained composure and refrained from retaliation. Local police were present to separate the two groups during this tense standoff.

Community Reactions and Concerns

The incident drew criticism from community leaders. Akal Takht’s Acting Jathedar Giani Kuldip Singh Gargaj described the occurrence as both unfortunate and concerning, emphasizing that Sikhs have been law-abiding residents of New Zealand for many years. Similarly, Harjinder Singh Dhami, president of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, called on authorities to safeguard religious freedoms.

However, the event also sparked social media backlash, with some users expressing racist sentiments against the Sikh community. Notably, Kirk Lubimov, president at Testbed I Strategy and Capital Advisory, labeled Sikhs as “Khalistani parasites” and commended the group for their actions, which he characterized as a defense against an “invasion” of their streets.

Context of Rising Tensions

This incident marks the third disruption of its kind within New Zealand in 2024, highlighting a growing trend of racism and anti-immigrant sentiment in the country. In June, Brian Tamaki led protests that included the desecration of flags from non-Christian religions and made derogatory comments regarding immigrants, particularly targeting the Sikh community. Tamaki alleged that Sikhs do not hire local workers and advocated for a policy of no immigration without assimilation.

As New Zealand navigates these tensions, the Sikh community continues to call for respect and understanding, emphasizing their longstanding contributions to the nation. The recent protests reflect broader societal challenges that require attention and dialogue among diverse communities.