The Hindu Indian diaspora in Australia has long been a pillar of resilience, embodying the spirit of multiculturalism while fostering ties between Australia and India. Yet, this community finds itself under siege – not just from baseless accusations in the media but from deliberate transnational agendas. Reports of Hindu genocide in Bangladesh and the export of divisive ideologies from overseas are not distant tragedies; they manifest here in Australia through threats, propaganda, and attempts to fracture our social fabric. These are not isolated incidents – they are calculated moves to exploit divisions and erode the success of a community vital to Australia’s Indo-Pacific vision.
The situation is dire. Australian Hindu/Indian journalists receive death threats, assassination plots target representatives of their homeland, and malign actors fund foreign journalists to peddle disinformation. This is not just a racism attack on our diaspora; it is an affront to Australia’s values of freedom, democracy, and coexistence. Are we as a nation prepared to let external forces dictate the narrative within our borders, or will we stand firm in defending the integrity of our multicultural society?
At the heart of this issue is a sinister double standard. The same voices that cry out for equality and justice are conspicuously silent on the atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh and the divisive actions of some within the Pakistani diaspora. Where was their moral outrage when Hindu temples were desecrated in Australia or when campaigns were launched to delegitimize Indian identity globally? Instead, they choose to vilify a community that has only ever sought to protect its heritage while contributing selflessly to Australia’s growth.
The allegations of extremism, division and surveillance directed at and amongst the Hindu Indian diaspora in recent media articles are more than baseless; they are dangerously inflammatory. Such narratives serve only to embolden those who wish to destabilise Australia’s harmonious multiculturalism. This community is not a threat – it is an asset. Its members are selfless contributors who strengthen the nation with their commitment to prosperity, democracy, and peace. To paint them as anything else is not just unjust; it is an insult to the very ideals that Australia holds dear.
As Australia heads toward a Federal Election, it is imperative to recognise the strategic importance of the Australian Hindu Indian diaspora. With over a million in number, this community holds not only cultural and economic influence but also significant political weight. Their votes will be guided by what truly matters – policies that champion progress, reject divisive narratives, and support their contributions to both Australia and the broader Indo-Pacific region. The choice is clear: stand with those who build bridges, or risk alienating a community that embodies the best of what Australia aspires to be. It is time to unequivocally reject these baseless narratives, confront the forces that seek to divide, and reaffirm our commitment to a united and inclusive Australia.
As a vibrant and growing community, we outrightly reject these attempts by the media to sow division, fear and false narratives. It is time to call it out.
