As we reflect on this painful history today, it is important to recognize the historical injustices suffered during Girmit and the victims of violence surely deserve an apology from their oppressors.
This is the Girmit Day message from the Chairperson of the Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission Pravesh Sharma, who says as we pay homage to thousands of the Girmityas (Indian migrant workers) who were brought to Fiji from India by the British some 145 years ago under the Indenture System, the Commission strongly condemns the horrors and human rights breaches during the Girmit era.
He says the Girmit system represents a dark chapter in our history, marked by violence, abuse, exploitation and systemic disregard for human dignity.
Sharma says available literature shows that around 60,500 Indian migrant workers were shipped to Fiji from India between 1879 and 1916, who were subjected to torture, harsh working conditions, forced labour, discrimination, and the denial of fundamental rights and freedoms.
He adds the Commission acknowledges that the descendants of the Girmityas have been afforded equal citizenry as stipulated in the Constitution of the Republic of Fiji, and they continue to contribute to the development of Fiji, their home.
The Chairperson says the Commission reiterates the importance of preserving historical memory and fostering inclusive societies based on equality, where human rights are upheld and protected for all.
