The Shree Sanatan Dharm Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji (SSDPSF) has lodged a formal complaint with the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) regarding a police officer accused of making derogatory remarks about Hindu and Muslim religious practices. This complaint follows the emergence of a video on social media in which the officer, who is also identified as a pastor, preaches that participation in major religious festivals, including Diwali, Ram Naumi, Navratri, and Eid, amounts to engaging in “demonic activities.”
In their official statement, the SSDPSF condemned these remarks as “deeply disrespectful, divisive, and contrary to Fiji’s foundational values of racial and religious harmony.” The Sabha raised concerns that such comments could undermine public trust in the neutrality of the Fiji Police Force, especially coming from a serving officer. They highlighted that the police promote racial unity and interfaith cooperation through various community policing initiatives, emphasizing the detrimental effects of divisive rhetoric on law enforcement’s integrity.
The Sabha urged all faith leaders and community stakeholders to denounce hate speech and reinforce Fiji’s long-standing tradition of interfaith harmony and national unity, asserting that places of worship should serve to uplift humanity rather than foster division.
This incident is part of a broader context of rising religious tensions in Fiji, which has seen similar occurrences, including vandalism at the Samabula Shiv Mandir and the desecration of sacred texts, leading to widespread condemnation from interfaith leaders and the public. Community representatives have been vocal in advocating for unity and mutual respect among diverse religious groups, viewing these troubling events as chances to enhance dialogue and understanding.
Despite recent adversities, community leaders remain optimistic that these incidents may galvanize collective efforts toward greater interfaith cooperation, ultimately contributing to a more harmonious society in Fiji. As the SSDPSF continues to champion respect and understanding, there is hope that such initiatives will pave the way for a future where all citizens can practice their faith freely, in a climate marked by dignity and mutual respect.