The Shree Sanatan Dharm Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji (SSDPSF) has formally requested an investigation from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) regarding a police officer accused of making disparaging comments about Hindu and Muslim religious practices. The call for an inquiry follows a video that surfaced on social media, wherein the officer, who is also a pastor, stated that participating in major Hindu festivals, such as Diwali, Ram Naumi, and Navratri, as well as Eid, constitutes involvement in “demonic activities.”
In their statement, the SSDPSF condemned the remarks as “deeply disrespectful and divisive,” stressing that such sentiments contradict Fiji’s core values of racial and religious harmony. The Sabha emphasized that comments of this nature not only offend followers of these faiths but also erode public trust in the impartiality of the Fiji Police Force.
Particularly concerning for the SSDPSF is the fact that these remarks originated from an active law enforcement officer. The organization underscored the role of the Police Force in advocating for racial unity and interfaith cooperation as part of their community policing initiatives, asserting that such divisive rhetoric, especially from within the police, undermines the credibility of the institution.
In light of the growing concern surrounding religious intolerance in the region, the SSDPSF has called upon faith leaders and community representatives to reject hate speech and reaffirm their commitment to interfaith harmony and national unity. “Places of worship must uplift humanity, not divide it,” the Sabha declared.
The call for action aligns with recent incidents in Fiji, where other places of worship have faced acts of vandalism and desecration, notably at the Samabula Shiv Mandir. Community leaders and organizations, including the Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji and the Vishva Hindu Parishad, have all condemned these acts, calling for stronger protective measures and urging communities to unite against intolerance.
Within this challenging context, there remains hope for a more harmonious future. The collective responses to these incidents reflect a commitment among community leaders to foster dialogue around mutual respect and understanding. By addressing these issues proactively, Fiji can work toward healing and strengthening bonds among its diverse religious communities, reinforcing its multicultural identity and promoting an atmosphere of peace and respect for all beliefs.
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