Pt. Narine files complaint with ERC over distress caused by Min Rodrigues and Pres Ali’s remarks

Prominent Hindu community leader and former City Mayor, Pandit Ubraj Narine, has formally lodged a complaint with the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) of Guyana, requesting a thorough investigation into comments made by Junior Minister Susan Rodrigues and President Irfaan Ali on TikTok that have caused significant distress within the Indo-Guyanese Hindu community.

The complaint, filed with ERC Chairman Shaikh Moeenul Hack, which this publication has seen (below), focuses on statements made by both officials in which they discussed the significance of the traditional “seven curry” dish, a deeply sacred part of Hindu religious and cultural practices.

Minister Rodrigues and President Ali, in videos posted on TikTok, allegedly made claims about the number seven being arbitrary and made incorrect assertions regarding the origins and significance of the dish, as well as its preparation.

According to Narine, a religious leader and Secretary/Priest of the Maha Shaba, the officials’ remarks also implied that ghee, an essential ingredient in traditional Hindu cooking, was unavailable to Hindus and that their meals were primarily prepared with water. Narine condemned these statements, arguing that they not only misrepresent the deeply held beliefs and practices of the Hindu community but also lack historical accuracy.

“The tradition of seven curry is not just a culinary practice; it is a sacred cultural and spiritual symbol for many in our community,” Narine stated. “The claims made by Minister Rodrigues and President Ali are blatantly incorrect and undermine the religious significance of the dish, as well as the role of ghee in our cooking.”

The Hindu community, which has faced a history of ethnic and racial tensions in Guyana, views these comments as an attack on their faith and cultural identity. Narine emphasised that the incorrect portrayal of such an important tradition could have far-reaching emotional and social consequences, further dividing communities already strained by ethnic divisions.

“These remarks not only misinform the public but also trivialise practices that are sacred to our people. Such statements could easily be seen as blasphemous, as they distort our religious rituals,” Narine added. “It is crucial that these inaccuracies be addressed immediately to avoid further harm and to preserve the integrity of our cultural practices.”

Narine has called on the ERC to launch an investigation into whether the statements made by the government officials were deliberate, misleading, or intended to sow discord among the country’s diverse communities. He stressed the importance of treating all citizens, regardless of ethnicity or religion, with respect and ensuring that their beliefs are not subject to inaccurate or disrespectful portrayals.

The complaint concluded with Narine expressing hope for a prompt and thorough investigation, calling for corrective actions to restore respect and understanding between Guyana’s ethnic groups.

Guyana continues to grapple with long-standing racial and ethnic tensions cultivated during the colonial period and foster unto today by politicians for self-serving purposes. The outcome of this complaint could serve as a key moment in addressing concerns about inter-community relations and the protection of cultural and religious identities rights that are enshrined in the Guyana’s Constitution