“While we celebrate Diwali here in Parliament, and also with our friends, family and loved ones, let’s take a moment to remember those families from our business communities who have been a victim of ram raids recently. They are living in fear. They have lost everything, and they have nothing to celebrate. So, Kiwi Indians in New Zealand will celebrate Diwali on a much bigger scale when [the] law makers of this country come up with the appropriate law to punish those who are responsible,” Narendra Bhana, New Zealand Indian Central Association (NZICA) president, said.
Bhana was addressing the audience at an event hosted by Minister for Diversity, Inclusion and Ethnic Communities Priyanca Radhakrishnan to celebrate Diwali in Parliament on October 27.
Bhana, who took charge as NZICA president in April, said Diwali was a time for celebration as well as reflection.
Acknowledging the role played by Kiwi Indian community leaders, Bhana said: “For Kiwi Indian community leaders, for whom this celebration means so much, I would like to express my personal respect and admiration for what you do for our Kiwi Indian communities in New Zealand.”
He said Kiwi Indians were running successful businesses, leading scientific research and working in areas such as hospitality, hospitals and the police.
“ Kiwi Indians are making a significant difference to the New Zealand economy,” Bhana noted.
“At every point, Kiwi Indians are making New Zealand [a] more prosperous, safe and secure country to live in,” Bhana added.
The NZICA is a national body working for the welfare and advancement of Kiwi Indians living in Aotearoa. It is an umbrella organisation for regional Indian community groups operating across New Zealand and serves as a link to the wider global diaspora.
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