The South African Hindu Dharma Sabha (SAHDS) has succeeded in their equality case against a local pastor who was videoed bashing the Hindu community for their views and rituals.

President of the South African Dharma Sabha, Ram Maharaj, was grateful in the effectiveness of the law, stating that this has been a historic victory for Hindus and humanity.

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“I want bigoted pastors, preachers, and other Hindu bashers to know loud and clear, far and wide, that the South African Hindu Dharma Sabha cannot and will not allow anyone to willy-nilly denigrate Hinduism with impunity anymore. We will ensure that these Hindu haters will face severe consequences and the full might of the law. A strong signal has been sent out by the Equality court that demeaning statements against differing faith groups will not be tolerated. Hindu pride, dignity, and the strength will be revitalised.”

In Chetty’s video, he could be heard saying, “My father was a Telugu, my mother was a Tamil and while they were growing up they said- you know what, they have no meaning- they worship idols, they worship other Gods. But I am here to tell you that the name of Jesus is above every other name.”

Maharaj explained that Chetty showed remorse.

“His willingness to attend the one-ness workshop will substantially enhance his inter-religious respect, understanding and harmony leading to unity and diversity, social cohesion, and nation building,” he said. In a statement, the pastor placed on record his apology.

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“I, Simeon Bradley Chetty, sincerely and unreservedly apologise to the South African Hindu Dharma Sabha (SAHDS), the Acharyaji Shyam Ramanuj Foundation, The Hindu Dharma Trust South Africa, and anyone of their members who may have been offended by certain statements made during an open-air church service in Chatsworth on May 31, 2020, which I attended as a guest and was asked to close in prayer. No malice or offence was intended and in particular also I confirm that I did not intend to cause anyone hurt or harm,” he said.

“While the Constitution protects the fundamentals right to profess (including through teaching and preaching) and practice such religious convictions and beliefs as one chooses, I undertake that I will, respect the fundamental rights and dignity of organisations or faiths and people who hold different convictions and beliefs, not to make statements that go outside the limits of free (and legally permissible) speech as per Section 16 (2) of the Constitution. I consent to the publication of this apology in the newspapers and Facebook,” Chetty said.