This Media Release is being issued following the filing of a case by Alliance Against Islamophobia Ltd (ACN 679 890 110) against Hindu Council of Australia Ltd (ACN 082 437 670) & Ors in the Federal Court of Australia (NSW Registry).

Hindu Council of Australia Limited (HCA) is a public limited, not-for-profit company run entirely by volunteers, promoting education, inter-faith harmony and social cohesion among hundreds of thousands of Hindus and the wider communities across Australia.

HCA strives to work for a strong, cohesive and active Hindu community in Australia, aiming to live in harmony with other religious and cultural communities while also staying devoted to preserving, promoting and sharing Hindu culture, faith and traditions.

HCA is in the process of reviewing the court documents. At this stage, HCA has been advised that Alliance Against Islamophobia Ltd (AAI) has primarily alleged that the respondents have published (tweeted/retweeted/republished) certain social media posts on X/Twitter/Instagram/HCA website which are reasonably likely to constitute a contravention of Section 18C of the Racial Discrimination Act 1975 (Cth).

This is the same allegation that AAI made against the respondents before the Australian Human Rights Commission.

“HCA and other respondents are taking all matters raised by AAI very seriously,” said Ashutosh Agarwal, Director & National Legal Counsel of HCA.

“However, we strongly disagree with the characterisation of the alleged facts presented in this matter, which are essentially the same as those raised by AAI in their complaint to AHRC against the same parties.

“HCA and others actively participated in the conciliation process with AHRC, but it now appears that AAI had some other expectations.

“We respect the judicial process and will not comment on the specific details of the allegations at this early stage of this matter. HCA and other respondents intend to vigorously defend themselves and HCA’s values throughout this process.”

In the meanwhile, HCA remains entirely focused on continuing to work for its members and the broader community without any fear or interruption.

Further updates regarding this matter will be shared as and when appropriate.

Hindu Council of Australia