Vinay Karanam Auckland – The New Zealand Kannada Koota (NZKK) has issued a heartfelt condemnation of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, India, which tragically claimed the lives of 26 tourists, including three Kannadigas: Mr. Manjunath Rao, Mr. Madhusudhan Trilupala Somisetty, and Mr. Bharat Bhushan.
In a statement released on 24 April 2025, NZKK expressed profound sorrow over the incident, describing it as a “heinous and cowardly act” that targeted innocent civilians based on their religious identity. The organisation emphasised that such acts are an affront to the values of humanity, peace, and religious harmony.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the families of all the victims and stand in solidarity with those affected by this tragedy,” the statement read. “Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time.”
The attack, which occurred on 22 April 2025, involved assailants reportedly asking victims to identify their religion before unleashing violence—a chilling reminder of the persistent threats posed by religious extremism.
NZKK highlighted the contributions of the Hindu community in New Zealand across various sectors, including education, health, business, and public service. The organisation called upon the international community to unite against terrorism and uphold the principles of peace and justice.
“As a community that cherishes cultural diversity and mutual respect, NZKK calls upon the international community to unite against terrorism and to uphold the principles of peace and justice,” the statement urged.
The New Zealand government also condemned the attack, with Foreign Minister Winston Peters stating, “New Zealand strongly condemns the terrorist attack in Kashmir. We send our deepest condolences to the victims, their families, and to the Indian people. We stand with our Indian friends at this difficult time.”
A candlelight vigil was held at Auckland’s Aotea Square on Thursday evening, where about a hundred people gathered to express solidarity with the victims of the attack. Organiser Rahul Chopra stated, “We have come together to pay our respects to the victims and condemn the terror attacks which have really shaken us.”
The Pahalgam attack has drawn widespread condemnation from global leaders, including United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who stressed that “attacks against civilians are unacceptable under any circumstances.”
As investigations continue, the international community remains united in its condemnation of the attack and in its support for the victims and their families.
Contact:
New Zealand Kannada Koota (NZKK)
Email: info@nzkk.org
Website: www.nzkk.org
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