Protesters Block Sikh Religious Procession in New Zealand, Sikh Community Condemns Incident

Auckland, New Zealand: In a surprising turn of events, a Sikh religious procession (Nagar Kirtan) in South Auckland was blocked by local protesters on Sunday. The demonstrators held banners reading, “This is New Zealand, not India,” and obstructed the route of the procession, sparking outrage among the Sikh community.

The procession had commenced from Gurudwara Nanaksar Thath Ishwar Darbar in Manurewa and was returning when it was halted. Sikh groups condemned the act, calling it an attack on religious freedom.

Religious Freedom Under Threat
Sukhbir Singh Badal, President of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), strongly criticized the incident. In a statement, he said, “I strongly condemn the obstruction of the peaceful Nagar Kirtan in South Auckland. The Nagar Kirtan is a sacred Sikh tradition — a joyous religious procession in which hymns from Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji are sung, promoting devotion, unity, and blessings for all humanity.”

Protesters Perform Haka Dance
Reports indicate that 30–35 local youths gathered with banners to block the procession. During the protest, they performed the Haka, a traditional Māori dance historically associated with warfare and physical display of strength.

Police intervened to control the situation, and after negotiations, the protesters stepped aside, allowing the Nagar Kirtan to continue safely back to the Gurudwara. Local Sikh leaders were present alongside the procession, ensuring order and security.

Call for Indian Government Intervention
Sukhbir Singh Badal urged Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to raise the issue with the New Zealand government to ensure the safety and religious rights of the Sikh community. He warned that such acts of intimidation pose a threat to religious freedom and universal brotherhood.

The incident has left the Sikh community in New Zealand concerned about the protection of their religious rights and the freedom to practice their faith without hindrance.