Gibraltar International Bank apologises for offence to Hindu community

The Gibraltar International Bank has apologised for the offence caused to the Hindu community by an image circulated on social media.

The photo shows a number of the bank’s employees dressed for an occasion themed around India. Most are pictured wearing Indian clothes – but three are in costume as Native Americans.

In a statement posted on social media, the bank’s Chief Executive Officer said the images were “extremely disrespectful to Gibraltar’s Hindu community, for whom Diwali is a sacred and joyous occasion”.

Peter Horton said this fell “below the standards of professionalism, respect, and cultural awareness expected of everyone at the Bank”.

He said he has already commissioned a review to understand how this could have happened, adding the bank will “engage with community representatives to strengthen understanding, respect, and inclusivity”.

Mr Horton said he recognized the hurt and dismay caused, adding the bank is committed to ensuring all its staff understand and learn from the seriousness of the incident.

The CEO said, “We are a bank for the whole community and we are all truly sorry”.

HINDU COMMUNITY RESPONSE

The Hindu Community says while it recognises that the image has “caused concern within the community”, it acknowledges the “swift and sincere” response from the bank’s leadership.

In a statement, the President of the Community, Sunil Chandiramani, said they appreciate the “constructive and respectful” approach taken by the bank in addressing the matter.

He says the community has been in direct contact with the bank’s senior management, who he says have “expressed their deepest apologies and confirmed that an internal review is underway to understand how this occurred and to prevent any recurrence”.

Mr Chandiramani says the community does not believe there was any malice involved in the incident, but that this is “a moment where awareness and sensitivity can be strengthened”.

He said the community views this as an “opportunity to share more about its faith, customs, and traditions, so that celebrations of cultural diversity in Gibraltar can be even more meaningful”.

Mr Chandiramani says Gibraltar is a “wonderful example of coexistence”, and that the community is “deeply grateful for the warmth and support shown by friends and neighbours across all communities”.

He extended the community’s wishes for “a bright, peaceful and joyous Diwali” to the people of Gibraltar.