The protesters conveyed their deep concerns regarding the distressing atrocities inflicted upon the Kuki Zo community in Manipur
Indian Australians came together in a powerful display of solidarity at a gathering held in front of the New South Wales Parliament in Sydney. The event was organized to vehemently protest against the ongoing violence and alarming situation in Manipur, India, particularly concerning the Kuki Zo minorities.
The protesters conveyed their deep concerns regarding the distressing atrocities inflicted upon the Kuki Zo community in Manipur. The demonstration also cast a spotlight on the potential involvement of the RSS-BJP in supporting and shielding individuals connected to the Manipur riots. The participants were resolute in demanding transparency and accountability, seeking to uncover the underlying causes of the violence while questioning whether it amounted to an orchestrated genocide targeting the Christian population in the region.
In partnership with Abigail Boyd, a representative from the Greens, an interfaith parliamentary event was orchestrated to stand in solidarity with the victims who have been subjected to both atrocities and sexual violence in Manipur. This unique event aimed to foster an atmosphere of unity and empathy among individuals from diverse faiths, backgrounds, and life experiences. Attendees shared moments of reflection, offered prayers, and listened to impactful speeches delivered by respected figures representing various communities. The event culminated in a poignant candlelight vigil, symbolizing a collective resolve to amplify the voices of those who have suffered and to inspire joint action against such egregious acts.
Addressing the public, Abigail Boyd stated on her Facebook page on June 30, “Join me in the NSW Parliament on Thursday as we raise our voices against the horrific sexual violence in Manipur, India. We must demand justice and dignity for women from the minority, Dalit, and indigenous communities.”
The organizers of this event fervently urged the general populace to unite in opposition to the flagrant violations of human rights occurring in Manipur. They underscored the critical importance of heightening awareness, fostering a sense of solidarity, and sending a resounding message against such inexcusable atrocities. The ongoing crisis in Manipur has led to the loss of hundreds of lives and the displacement of thousands. Shockingly, the violence has resulted in the destruction of 249 Christian churches.
The protest organizers encouraged attendees to explore related videos focusing on Manipur violence, the Save Manipur movement, and the Manipur protests to engender greater global awareness. Those interested were also warmly invited to join the Save Manipur Global WhatsApp Group, where they could stay updated and contribute meaningfully to the cause
At the gathering in Sydney, Australia, Mary Mizo, a member of the Kuki community with roots in Manipur, shared her personal and emotional account of being directly impacted by the harrowing circumstances, which compelled her mother and sister to flee their home, only to have it confiscated later on.
Mary Mizo tearfully expressed, “I stand before you today, not merely as a representative of the Kuki Zo people, but as a voice for the voiceless and a beacon of hope for the despondent. My heart weighs heavy as I speak to you, burdened by the horrors that my people, the Kuki Zo tribe, have been subjected to in Manipur.”
The event was graced by eminent speakers, including Durga Owen, a former Tamil refugee who now serves as a lecturer in Sydney Law, as well as Senator Lee Rhiannon. Durga Owen extended her gratitude to the assembly, asserting, “This isn’t a flashy, media-fueled campaign. It’s not even something that we, as a diaspora, are allowed to openly discuss on social media. Our voices are silenced when we advocate for the rights of Dalits, minorities, and indigenous people in India. We’re met with condemnation when we raise concerns about the largest democracy in the world, India.”
With fervor and conviction, the gathering passionately advocated for a cessation of funding to organizations affiliated with VHP (Vishva Hindu Parishad) and RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh).
The protest organizers encouraged attendees to explore related videos focusing on Manipur violence, the Save Manipur movement, and the Manipur protests to engender greater global awareness. Those interested were also warmly invited to join the Save Manipur Global WhatsApp Group, where they could stay updated and contribute meaningfully to the cause.
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