Global Terrorism and Peace Addressed at India Day Event in Johannesburg, South Africa

The India Day event in Johannesburg focused on India's efforts against global terrorism and promoted peace. The exhibition showcased the human cost of terrorism worldwide.

India's ongoing efforts to combat global terrorism and promote peace were highlighted during the 16th annual India Day, hosted by the India Club in Johannesburg. This association of Indian expatriates, established 16 years ago, organises events to celebrate their homeland, with India Day being the main event held in August, coinciding with India's Independence Day on August 15.

Thousands attended the free event, where expatriates from various Indian states showcased cultural performances. Indian companies operating in South Africa also displayed their products at numerous stalls. At the entrance in Sandton, an exhibition focused on global terrorism demonstrated how terrorist attacks have affected countries worldwide for decades, including India.

Global Terrorism Highlighted

The exhibition featured a timeline of attacks worldwide, concluding with the recent incident in Pahalgam. High Commissioner Prabhat Kumar urged attendees to visit the exhibition. "You must all go and see this exhibition. It will remind you of the terrorist attacks that have taken place in India and throughout the world and how it has disturbed and affected our families and our lives," Kumar stated.

Kumar described the Pahalgam attack as an assault on India's unity. "The terrorists singled out a single religion and killed 26 people on that day. We have responded in a very strong manner," he said. He emphasised India's firm stance against terrorism, stating that terror cannot coexist with dialogue or trade.

Calls for Peace and Reconciliation

Bhai Sahib Mohinder Singh, OBE, from the UK, delivered a heartfelt appeal for peace and reconciliation. "Because of Nelson Mandela, who was my hero, I have created a Peace Charter for forgiveness and reconciliation. If we want peace, we have to reconcile; and for reconciling we have to forgive," Singh expressed.

Singh's message focused on fostering peace at various levels—personal, familial, societal, national, international, and global. He praised the India Club for organising India Day as a significant step towards achieving peace and reconciliation through unity.

Kumar reiterated India's commitment to responding decisively to terrorism. "This is the new normal. We will not differentiate between terrorists, their handlers and the state backing them and we will respond each time there is this attack," he affirmed.

The event underscored India's dual focus on combating terrorism while advocating for peace. It brought together diverse communities to celebrate Indian culture and foster understanding amidst global challenges.

With inputs from PTI