New Delhi:
The High Commissioner of New Zealand was called in to the Ministry of External Affairs and a strong demarche was issued to him on this matter It was conveyed to him that the Government strongly and unequivocally denounces the racist remarks of the journalist in question. It is shocking that such bigoted views have been aired by representative of a mainstream media organization of a multi-ethnic democracy like New Zealand.
These remarks are totally unacceptable to India and should be condemned by all right thinking people and nations.
It is hoped that the Government of New Zealand would take immediate demonstrative action against the said individual to send out a clear signal that such behavior is totally unacceptable.
The High Commissioner of New Zealand conveyed the deep regret for the hurt caused by the comments of the media commentator which he characterized as culturally insensitive, inappropriate and vulgar and certainly not the views of the Government of New Zealand. He also acknowledged the vital contribution of the Honorable Chief Minister to the Commonwealth Games.
The Indian High Commissioner in New Zealand had also suitably taken up this matter with the Government of New Zealand.