Sukhbir Badal condemns disruption of ‘Nagar Kirtan’ in New Zealand; Watch Video
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh / Auckland, December 21, 2025: Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) President Sukhbir Singh Badal has strongly condemned the disruption of a peaceful Nagar Kirtan procession in South Auckland, New Zealand, which took place on Sunday following protests by local youths.
Nagar Kirtan is a sacred Sikh religious tradition involving a devotional procession with the recitation of hymns from Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, symbolising unity, peace, and service to humanity.
According to reports, the Nagar Kirtan had started from Gurdwara Nanaksar Thath Ishar Darbar, Manurewa, and was returning to the Gurdwara Sahib when 30 to 35 local youths blocked the procession.
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The protesters performed the Haka dance and displayed placards reading “This is New Zealand, not India”, in an attempt to stop the religious procession.
The Haka is a traditional dance performed by the indigenous Maori community, often characterised by aggressive body movements and chanting, and is historically known as a war dance.
Local police intervened promptly to defuse the situation. Following police mediation, the protesters stepped aside, and the Nagar Kirtan safely returned to the Gurdwara Sahib. Local Sikh leaders were present during the incident.
Reacting to the incident, SAD President Sukhbir Singh Badal said he strongly condemns the intimidation and disruption of the peaceful religious procession. He lauded the Sikh community for responding with remarkable restraint and dignity, staying true to the teachings of ‘Chardi Kala’ (eternal optimism) and ‘Sarbat Da Bhala’ (welfare of all).
“Such acts of intimidation threaten religious freedom and the spirit of universal brotherhood,” Badal said. He urged External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar to take up the matter with the New Zealand government to ensure the protection of religious rights of the Indian diaspora and to prevent recurrence of such incidents.
The incident has raised concerns over the safety and freedom of religious expressions among diaspora communities abroad.