Migrant Indians have been facing some difficulties in New Zealand. Considering the upcoming elections, New Zealand Indian Central Association (NZICA) organised Kiwi Indian Conclave event on June 28th where political leaders were introduced to some questions regarding the issues of concern for the Kiwi Indians and migrant Indians.
It happened for the first time in history that Kiwi Indians have come out to speak on the issues. Around 15O Kiwi Indians put forward their wish list in front of political parties. All major political parties were invited to the event, including National, Labour, Internet Mana, Green, New Zealand First and Maori Party. While NZ first and Maori parties were absent from the event, the other parties made a significant presence to the event.
Veer Khar, President of Manukau Indian Association and Chairman of NZICA, who was the main organiser of the event, says that Indian community has a participatory role in their country of adoption - New Zealand. “History was created today when about 150 strong Kiwi Indian leadership representing various associations and focus groups put forward their wish list in front of political parties seeking engagement for empowerment,” said Mr. Khar.
“This exercise of getting on one platform and delivering a coherent verdict lays the foundation of Kiwi Indian politics for hence forth. The leaders emphasized that they feel neglected and exploited by the very political system that they are so keen to engage with. Message was sent loud and clear and the great outcome was that the political parties repeatedly assured that they will make an extra effort to engage.”
"The professionalism of the event management, quality of the deliberations, wide participation, timeliness of the structured event and facility provisions were highly acclaimed by all present. Indian community has a participatory role in their country of adoption - New Zealand and the community will do what it takers. Foundation has been laid,” said Mr. Khar.
The main issues aroused in the conclave included security concerns, Educational parity, Equal employment opportunities, Capital gains tax, International students concern, bilateral trade, domestic violence, Health , New immigrants, Home ownership, Overseas investment and many others topic that directly influence Indians in New Zealand.
Please see our upcoming issue on 11 July, for detailed coverage.