Sikh Protesters Target Indian Prime Minister Outside Community Event
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi faced protests during the final event of his New Zealand visit in Auckland, where Sikh demonstrators gathered outside Spark Arena and accused him of promoting extremist politics.
The protest took place as Modi attended a large Indian community event attended by thousands of supporters. Demonstrators carried signs and a mannequin of Modi in prison clothing, while some described him as the face of “Hindu terror” in India.
The protest triggered a counter-response from Modi supporters, who chanted in his favour outside the venue. Police intervened to keep both groups apart and prevent the situation from escalating.
The event also saw anti-immigration protesters chanting against migrants. Their slogans added another layer of tension to Modi’s visit, which has already sparked debate in New Zealand over trade, immigration and community relations.
India and New Zealand Announce Strategic Partnership
Earlier, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon welcomed Modi with a traditional Maori ceremony and a guard of honour in Auckland.
During the visit, India and New Zealand announced a new strategic partnership covering defence, security, trade, diplomacy, culture, sport and science. Both leaders said the partnership would deepen cooperation between the two countries.
Modi described the agreement as a milestone and said democratic values made India and New Zealand natural partners. The two sides also stressed their shared interest in a free, open, peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.
The visit marked the first trip to New Zealand by an Indian prime minister in 40 years. It also came as India seeks a stronger role in the Pacific at a time of growing Chinese diplomatic and military activity in the region.
Trade Deal Faces Immigration Backlash
Luxon has promoted closer ties with India as an economic opportunity for New Zealand. He has highlighted the potential benefits of trade, jobs and wider cooperation between the two countries.
However, the India-New Zealand trade agreement has faced criticism from some political groups in New Zealand. The strongest objections have focused on immigration and visa access for Indian students and workers.
Some lawmakers from New Zealand First, a party in Luxon’s governing coalition, have criticised parts of the agreement. One government minister’s comments about Indian migration were condemned by an Indian community leader as racist.
Despite the backlash, Luxon defended the need for wider global partnerships. He said New Zealand is a small trading and maritime nation that must build strong ties with like-minded countries.
Modi’s visit therefore became both a diplomatic milestone and a flashpoint for domestic political tensions in New Zealand. While supporters celebrated stronger India-New Zealand relations, protesters used the occasion to raise concerns over human rights, nationalism and immigration policy.
