HONOUR OF SH. MAHENDRA CHAUDHRY DEMOCRATICALLY ELECTED PRIME MINISTER OF FIJI

A grand event was held at FICCI, New Delhi, on 24th August 2000, to honour Sh. Mahendra Chaudhry, the democratically elected Prime Minister of Fiji. The event was attended by political leaders, diplomats, and community representatives, who gathered to express solidarity with the people of Indian origin in Fiji and condemn the unlawful coup that overthrew Chaudhry’s government.

Key Highlights of the Event

1. The Democratic Crisis in Fiji

  • Dr. I.S. Chauhan (Indian High Commissioner in Fiji)
    • Provided insights into the political turmoil in Fiji and the challenges faced by the Indian-origin population.
    • Condemned the coup that led to the removal of Mahendra Chaudhry’s government.
    • Emphasized the need for diplomatic intervention and international pressure to restore democracy in Fiji.

2. Condemnation of the Coup & Support for Mahendra Chaudhry

  • Sh. Bangaru Laxman (President, BJP)

    • Strongly condemned the unlawful takeover of Fiji’s democratic government.
    • Urged the Indian government to take a firm stand on the issue at international forums.
    • Called for greater protection of people of Indian descent in Fiji.

  • Sh. Sahib Singh (Former Chief Minister, Delhi)

    • Spoke about the historical contributions of the Indian community in Fiji.
    • Highlighted the discrimination and hardships faced by Indo-Fijians.
    • Advocated for humanitarian and diplomatic measures to safeguard their rights.

  • Sh. Vishnu Hari Dalmia (Working President, VHP)

    • Expressed concerns over racial discrimination against Indians in Fiji.
    • Called upon global organizations to ensure justice and equal rights for the Indian community in Fiji.

3. Role of Indian Leadership in Extending Support

  • Sh. J.P. Nadda (Health Minister, Govt. of H.P.)

    • Stressed the importance of India standing firm in support of democracy and human rights.
    • Suggested that India should engage in international diplomatic efforts to pressurize the Fijian government for fair treatment of Indo-Fijians.

  • Sh. H.C. Vaid (Spokesman, R.S.S.)

    • Criticized the failure of international bodies in addressing the situation in Fiji.
    • Encouraged stronger engagement from Indian organizations in protecting the rights of the Indian diaspora.

  • Sardar Onkar S. Thapar (Gen. Sec., Akali Dal)

    • Highlighted the role of the Sikh and Indian community in Fiji and their contributions to the country's economy.
    • Urged India to establish strong diplomatic channels to ensure the safety of Indo-Fijians.

4. Call for Action & Diplomatic Resolution

✅ Appeal for Restoration of Democracy

  • Speakers urged international intervention to reinstate Mahendra Chaudhry’s government.

✅ Protection of Indo-Fijians

  • A call for stronger diplomatic measures to safeguard the rights and safety of Indians in Fiji.

✅ Strengthening India-Fiji Relations

  • Advocating for economic and cultural ties to support the Indian community in Fiji.

Conclusion

The event concluded with a unified voice of concern and support for Mahendra Chaudhry and Indians in Fiji. The speakers emphasized the importance of upholding democratic values, human rights, and India’s responsibility in standing with its diaspora. A formal resolution was passed, urging the Indian government to take diplomatic action and raise the issue at international platforms.