Back in October on the day of Gandhi Jayanti last year, to honour the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi, I launched a petition for a statue of Mahatma Gandhi to be placed in one of Auckland’s prominent public spaces.

Mahatma Gandhi is recognised as one of the great leaders of the 20th century. One of the key principles for which he is known is equality. Mahatma Gandhi promoted civil rights for women, abolition of the caste system in India and fair treatment of all people regardless of their religion or background.

These are values which all New Zealanders regard as part of living in a civilised society. While our local Indian community accounted for just around five per cent of the population according to the latest census, it is the fastest growing Kiwi ethnic group in the country.

Over 220,000 Kiwis are Indian New Zealanders, and the biggest proportion of Kiwi Indians live in Auckland.

India and New Zealand have a longstanding friendship. Our relationship dates back to the 1890s, when the first immigrants from Punjab and Gujarat came to New Zealand. Indian troops fought alongside the ANZACs in Gallipoli in 1915. Such is the status of India and New Zealand’s relationship that iconic New Zealander Sir Edmund Hillary served as the New Zealand High Commissioner for a period.

Furthermore, India is one of New Zealand’s most significant trading partners, and if National is elected in 2020, we will push for a trade deal to grow our relationship even further.

But a statue of Mahatma Gandhi is not just about India and New Zealand, and/or Indians in New Zealand, it is about honouring his legacy – the legacy that is ever lasting and is influencing civilised societies all around the world.

Honouring Gandhi in one of Auckland’s most prominent public spaces, such as Aotea Square, would befit a man of such importance and influence all around the world.

If you haven’t already, please sign my petition here to honour the legacy and example of Mahatma Gandhi – https://parmjeetparmar.national.org.nz/honour_the_legacy_of_mahatma_gandhi

You can also access the petition by going to my website – www.parmjeetparmar.national.org.nz or sign a hard copy petition in my office on 68 Stoddard Road, Mt Roskill. –

-Dr Parmjeet Parmar MP, National List MP based in Mount Roskill