A Message of Gratitude and Unity

By Lila Selung Mabo,

Date: 21 June 2026. Following the recent racial incident targeting members of the Nepali community in Aldershot, a constructive meeting was held today, 21 June 2026, at the Rushmoor Borough Council (RBC) offices.

The meeting was attended by key local stakeholders, including:

• Ian Harrison: RBC Interim Managing Director

• Alex Reading: Hampshire Police Chief Inspector

• James Duggin: Executive Head of Operations

• Gareth Williams: Council Leader

• Kevin Bettsworth: Reform Party Leader

• Jib Belbase: Deputy Mayor

• Uttar Gurung: Councillor

• GRNC Representatives: Lt (Retd) Sunil Rana (General Secretary) and Sushila Magar (Project Manager)

On behalf of the Greater Rushmoor Nepali Community (GRNC), I would like to express our heartfelt appreciation to all those who participated. Your presence and commitment to addressing this issue are deeply valued.

Meeting Outcomes and Commitments

During the discussion, council and police representatives extended their sincere sympathy to the victims and the wider Nepali community. They reaffirmed their profound respect for the historic and ongoing contributions made by Gurkha veterans and the Nepali community to the Rushmoor area.

Chief Inspector Alex Reading confirmed that a suspect has been arrested and that the investigation is currently ongoing.

The meeting focused on proactive measures to prevent future incidents, with participants agreeing on the following key actions:

• Public Awareness: Increasing efforts to educate the public and foster a culture of inclusivity.

• Reporting Systems: Improving the accessibility and efficiency of systems for reporting hate incidents.

• Education: Promoting equality and respect through community-wide educational initiatives.

• Stronger Cooperation: Strengthening partnerships between the Council, Hampshire Police, and the GRNC.

• Regular Dialogue: Re-establishing formal, regular meetings between Rushmoor Borough Council and Nepali community leaders, ensuring representation from all political parties.

The dialogue was positive, constructive, and firmly focused on practical, long-term solutions.

A Call for Continued Vigilance

Once again, on behalf of the GRNC, I extend my sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to this important discussion regarding the safety, wellbeing, and unity of our community.

I encourage all members of the Nepali and the wider local community to remain vigilant, to support one another, and to continue standing united against discrimination.