The Shree Sanatan Dharm Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji (SSDPSF) has lodged a formal complaint with the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) over alleged derogatory comments made by a serving police officer who also preaches as a pastor.
A video circulating on social media shows the officer, identified as Pastor Kartik Naidu, allegedly claiming that participation in major Hindu festivals such as Diwali, Ram Naumi and Navratri, as well as Muslim observances like Eid, amounts to involvement in “demonic activities”.
In a statement published on their Facebook page, the SSDPSF described the remarks as “deeply disrespectful, divisive, and contrary to Fiji’s foundational values of racial and religious harmony”. It is calling for a full investigation and appropriate action under Fiji’s laws.
“Such comments are not only offensive to Hindus and Muslims, but they also undermine public trust in the impartiality of the Fiji Police Force,” the organisation said, adding that it was especially concerned because the comments were made by a serving law enforcement officer.
Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu has confirmed to fijivillage that CID and the Internal Affairs Unit are both investigating the matter. He stressed that officers who hold religious roles must act responsibly and uphold freedom of religion at all times.
The SSDPSF said the Fiji Police Force promotes racial unity and interfaith cooperation through community policing, and messages like those seen in the video “damage the integrity and credibility of the institution”.
“Places of worship must uplift humanity, not divide it,” the Sabha said. “We remain committed to truth, respect and universal brotherhood, and will continue working with government and civil society to strengthen peace and understanding across all communities.”
The organisation urged faith leaders to reject hate speech and reaffirm Fiji’s long-standing commitment to interfaith harmony.
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