NZ First: Singh, Patel and the Politics of Hate
Yesterday, I appeared on RNZ and was interviewed by Melissa Chan-Green to respond to comments by Winston Peters and Shane Jones against the Indian community. I have added a write-up below alongside the interview.
Shane Jones has once again targeted the Indian community, using surnames like Singh and Patel to stir fear about immigration. This is an old tactic. When policies fail, some politicians reach for the same racist catcall, painting a picture of an “Asian invasion” to distract from real issues.
The hypocrisy is clear. The same politicians who seek votes and funding from the Indian community during campaigns, including those from NZ First, ACT and National, are the ones who insult and belittle them when it suits their politics.
No one from National or ACT has defended Indians or criticised NZ First for their comments at the conference.
Here are the facts. In 2024, the most common baby surnames were Singh (about 680), Kaur (about 630) and Smith (about 300). Why Singh and Kaur? Sikh naming traditions use a few shared surnames, so they appear at the top even though the community is small. New Zealand had 58,341 births last year. Births by ethnicity in 2023 were roughly European or Other 24,000, Māori 22,000, Pacific 7,000 and Asian, including Indian 6,000. There is no invasion, just diversity.
The Indian community is about 292,000 strong. It contributes to healthcare, technology, education and business. It deserves respect, not fear-mongering.
Common surnames do not equal a threat. The Indian community must reject these divisive comments and hold politicians accountable. It must also expect its own leaders to challenge those who seek votes and money while spreading hate.
New Zealand is stronger because of its diversity. Do not let fear win over facts. Stand up for truth, dignity and respect.
Interview here:
https://www.rnz.co.nz/national/programmes/first-up/audio/2019003422/historian-on-sikh-and-indian-migrant-stories-in-nz