Indian Muslim groups in Australia distance themselves from Bondi Beach accused

Hyderabad: Distancing themselves from the two accused in the Bondi Beach attack, the Indian community in Australia said that they knew nothing about Sajid Akram and Naveed Akram. Speaking to TOI from Sydney, Muhammad Arshad Khan, chairman of the Indian Muslim Association of Australia, said that despite being actively involved in the community for decades, he had never encountered the accused or their family."I migrated here in Feb 1998 and have been part of the community since. But I had never heard of them [before the attack]. They are not even registered with us," said Khan, adding, "Such people always live in isolation. We condemn this and stand with our fellow Australians." On Dec 16, the Telangana police confirmed that Sajid was originally from Hyderabad and migrated to Australia 27 years ago.Other Indian associations echoed concerns about such incidents tarnishing the image of the Indian diaspora, which has largely coexisted peacefully with the Australian community for decades — even amid recent protests around immigration. "Violence has no place in our society, and attacks on public spaces strike at the very heart of community safety and trust," read a statement issued by the Indian Crescent Society of Australia which estimates that around 1.2 lakh Indian Muslims live in Australia.Hyderabadi group plans blood donation campMeanwhile, many community groups in Australia have stepped forward to support victims and their families. The Deccan Australian Welfare Association (DAWA), for instance, has planed a blood donation drive. "The impact of this tragedy has been felt deeply across the entire DAWA Hyderabadi community. In response, and as a tangible expression of our solidarity and shared humanity, DAWA is taking the initiative to organise a blood donation drive for the victims. We will be liaising with the Australian Red Cross to facilitate this drive, so that we may offer practical support to those who are injured and in need," said Mustafa Mohiuddin, president of DAWA.He urged all community members to come forward and participate.