URGENT UPDATE: Australia’s High Commissioner to India, Philip Green, has just reaffirmed the Australian government’s commitment to protecting Indian migrants following a wave of racist rallies across the country. In statements made to the Press Trust of India (PTI) earlier today, Green emphasized that authorities will address incidents of racism “effectively.”
This announcement comes in the wake of troubling events, including the brutal assault of an Indian student in Adelaide earlier this year and the recent “March for Australia” rallies held on August 31, where thousands protested against immigration, particularly targeting those from India. The rallies turned violent, with police in Melbourne deploying pepper spray to manage escalating tensions.
Green’s comments highlight a growing concern over the safety of the Indian community in Australia, which constitutes the second-largest migrant group after British expatriates, with 783,958 Australian citizens reporting Indian ancestry according to the 2021 census.
“People in Australia are entitled to have demonstrations, but we would say this very clearly, we stand with migrants, including migrants of Indian origin, and we stand very much for multiculturalism in Australia,” Green stated, underscoring the government’s stance against discrimination.
Reports indicate that far-right groups, including the National Socialist Network, played a significant role in the recent protests, raising alarms about the rising tide of racism in Australian society. Green acknowledged that while incidents may occur, the government is committed to addressing them swiftly and decisively.
Adding to the controversy, Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price remarked that the administration of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese appears to be favoring Indian migrants who are likely to support the Labor Party. Such comments have sparked debates on the political motivations behind immigration policies.
As Australia grapples with these challenges, Green’s message of support for Indian migrants is crucial. He reiterated that the Australian government is “very clear” about its position against ethnic and religious discrimination, affirming a commitment to a multicultural society.
As developments unfold, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of all migrants in Australia. Authorities and community leaders are expected to intensify their efforts to combat racism and promote inclusivity.
This situation remains fluid, and further updates will be provided as they become available. Stay tuned for the latest developments impacting the Indian community in Australia and the government’s response to this urgent issue.
