DIWALI celebrations have been overshadowed by reports of unruly behaviour by groups of children, raising concerns among residents and members of the Hindu community.
Police and social media reports have highlighted allegations of harassment, abusive language, stone-throwing and property damage involving children visiting homes for Diwali sweets.
Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro confirmed that officers received two reports of stone-throwing in Navua over the Diwali weekend, allegedly involving children who retaliated after being refused sweets.
“We received two calls last night (Sunday night) about children throwing stones after they were refused sweets, one at 9pm and another after midnight,” she said.
Ms Naisoro said police mobile patrols covering Navua and Wainadoi, along with another team travelling between Navua and Pacific Harbour, responded to the reports. However, the children had left before officers arrived.
She also confirmed that police patrols continued in the Navua, Calia and Tokotoko areas on Diwali night.
Meanwhile, communities in parts of the country have raised concerns about what they describe as increasingly unacceptable behaviour by some children visiting homes to collect Diwali sweets.
They reported incidents in which children allegedly entered private properties, demanded sweets and used offensive language towards householders who declined their requests.
Concerns have also extended to businesses following the circulation of a video on social media that appears to show children lighting and throwing firecrackers inside a shop in Cunningham, Suva.
Members of the Hindu community say such behaviour goes beyond the traditional practice of visiting homes during Diwali, leaving some residents feeling intimidated and concerned about their safety and property.
They have called on parents to take greater responsibility for their children’s conduct, stressing the importance of teaching respect, good manners and consideration for others.
While the exchange of sweets is a familiar part of Diwali celebrations, they say it should remain an act of goodwill and generosity rather than become an excuse for demanding, threatening or damaging behaviour.
The community has called for greater parental supervision and responsible behaviour to ensure the spirit of Diwali is not undermined by incidents that place unnecessary pressure on families, residents and businesses.
