Australia’s High Commissioner to India hails Vindaloo Against Violence campaign

NEW DELHI - Australia’s High Commissioner to India, Peter Varghese, has hailed the ‘Vindaloo Against Violence’ campaign in which thousands of Australians gathered to eat at Indian restaurants in a show of solidarity with the Indian community.

“This is a simple but telling gesture from the Australian community to India and the Indian members of Australia’s community. This initiative will help in building bridges and restoring the trust, respect and friendship that exists between the broad Australian community and its valued members of Indian origin,” Varghese said in a statement.

“Australians love the diversity of our multicultural society and have categorically rejected the events of the recent past - they have no place in a society as culturally plural as ours,” it added.

Meanwhile, Victorian Premier Brumby dined with representatives of the Indian students community at a popular Indian cafi, Desi Dhaba in Melbourne.

“The Vindaloo Against Violence initiative is a unique opportunity for Victorians to unite and send a message that the actions of an ignorant few will not be allowed to undermine the reputation of Melbourne as a peaceful and friendly city,” Brumby said.

“Victoria’s cultural diversity is one of our strengths and any attack on our community is an attack upon us all. Any attack motivated by race or prejudice is particularly disgraceful,” he added.

The idea for ‘Vindaloo Against Violence’ campaign originated when Mia Northrop, 35, a digital media professional from Flemington, invited 100 friends on Facebook to dine out to support the Indian community. Soon, her idea gathered pace beyond expectations. (ANI)