Te Puke, New Zealand 30/11/25 — Two Sikh activists say they were violently assaulted during the Nagar Kirtan parade in Te Puke on 27 September 2025, alleging that the attackers forcibly took their phones and fled before police arrived. Despite the victims filing a complaint the same day and providing full statements last month, no charges have been laid more than two months later — leaving the community frustrated and fearful.
According to the victims, the confrontation began when a group of men objected to them peacefully holding Khalistan flags on a public road during the procession. Following verbal arguments, the victims say they were physically attacked, and their phones were taken by force — an offence that legally constitutes robbery under New Zealand law.
Police were called to the scene immediately, but by the time officers arrived, the alleged offenders had fled. The victims later provided identification details of the attackers, who they say are well-known within the community.
New Concerns After Accused Posts Photo With Indian Police
Tensions rose further last week when one of the accused posted a photo of himself posing with Indian police officer online. The victims say this feels threatening given ongoing human-rights concerns in Punjab and the accused’s support from pro-India networks.
They also believe political connections in New Zealand may be contributing to the slow progress of the investigation. Several local Sikh community leaders with influence in New Zealand politics are said to be publicly aligned with the accused and have previously expressed pro-India positions.
Community Calls for Transparency and Action
Members of the Sikh community say the delay in laying charges — despite statements, evidence, and identification — has shaken their confidence in the fairness of the process.
“This was an assault and a robbery committed in public during a religious event,” one victim said. “We cooperated fully with police. It has been over two months, and all we want is a fair investigation without political pressure.”
The victims are now urging police leadership, oversight bodies, and New Zealand media to bring attention to the case to ensure accountability and transparency.