Community Rallies to Protect Victoria’s Sole Indian Cultural Precinct
DANDENONG, Aug 27: Dandenong’s iconic Little India precinct is facing eviction, prompting a call to action from traders and community leaders to save Victoria’s first and only Indian cultural hub. After over 30 years of serving as a center for authentic Indian food, textiles, fashion, and more, the small businesses of Little India are under threat of displacement due to a new development initiative.
The Victorian Government's recent $600 million “More Homes and Jobs in the Heart of Dandenong” announcement has raised alarm among the precinct’s traders, who fear that the plan could lead to the closure of their businesses. Over 100 families connected to Little India traders now face losing both their homes and livelihoods amidst rising post-COVID challenges, interest rates, and the high cost of living.
The traders of Little India, backed by the broader Indian community in Melbourne, have expressed their deep disappointment with the government’s failure to acknowledge the cultural and economic importance of the precinct. They are calling for urgent dialogue with Premier Jacinta Allan and the Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Hon. Ingrid Stitt, to address their concerns. Without government intervention, many traders could face immediate eviction, financial losses, and forced relocation.
Community members rallied on Tuesday, August 27th, at the corner of Mason Street and Foster Street, Dandenong aimed to send a strong message to the Victorian Government to preserve this vital cultural precinct.
(GDI News Desk)