Sikh leaders have strongly condemned the opposition by a group of local residents to a Nagar Kirtan in Manurewa, South Auckland, calling the incident a threat to social and communal harmony.
Akal Takht acting Jathedar Giani Kuldip Singh Gargaj and SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami urged the New Zealand and Indian governments to ensure a safe and supportive environment for the Sikh community to observe religious traditions, emphasising dialogue, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence.
Terming the incident, a challenge to the Sikh community and to social and communal harmony, Jathedar Kuldip Singh Gargaj said such acts threaten peaceful coexistence in society.
He stated that a group of individuals—reportedly led by Brian Tamaki, a controversial leader—deliberately misused local customs and traditions to create a hateful atmosphere and challenge the Sikh community.
Gargaj urged the New Zealand government to take serious note and act firmly against those attempting to disrupt communal harmony.