A New Zealand MP has sought to calm concerns about pro-Khalistan protests ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day visit to the country. Parmjeet Parmar, the first Indian-origin woman elected to New Zealand's Parliament from the National Party, said the protesters are a "very small number" and do not represent the views of the wider Sikh community.
What the New Zealand MP said about the protests
Parmar made the comments in an interview with ANI, addressing the issue directly. She stressed that while New Zealand values freedom of speech and the right to peaceful protest, these freedoms do not extend to intimidation, violence, or support for terrorism.
According to ANI, Parmar said: "The numbers are very small; you can count them on your fingertips. They do not represent the views of the wider community, including the Sikh community here in New Zealand."
Context of PM Modi's visit to New Zealand
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled for a two-day visit to New Zealand. The visit has drawn attention from some groups, but Parmar's remarks aim to put the scale of any protests into perspective. She emphasized that the vast majority of the Sikh community in New Zealand does not share the views of the small number of protesters.
New Zealand's stance on freedom of speech and protest
Parmar also clarified New Zealand's legal and cultural position on protests. She noted that the country values freedom of speech and the right to peaceful protest, but there are clear limits.
"We value freedom of speech... but such freedoms do not extend to intimidation, violence or support for terrorism." — Parmjeet Parmar to ANI
Our Take: A sensible perspective on a sensitive issue
Parmar's comments are a welcome dose of reality. In our view, it is easy for a small, vocal group to create the impression of widespread dissent. By clearly stating that the protesters are a "very small number" and do not represent the Sikh community, Parmar has helped put the situation in proper context. This is important not just for the visit itself, but for the broader relationship between India and New Zealand. It reminds us that the actions of a few should not be mistaken for the views of many.