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| Pratima Nand, who went undercover to expose Indian astrologers scamming vulnerable Kiwis (Facebook pic) |
Money-hungry Indian astrologers, called witch doctors by the local media, have become a controversy in New Zealand.
Many of them have set up shops in South Auckland, which has a high concentration of people of Indian origin, and are trying to con unsuspecting locals, says New Zealand media.
Many of them have set up shops in South Auckland, which has a high concentration of people of Indian origin, and are trying to con unsuspecting locals, says New Zealand media.
Pratima Nand, an Indian community leader, who went undercover to investigate these astrologers, is leading a campaign against them, reports 3News.
It has been revealed that these astrologers travel on tourist or temporary work visas, set up shops in houses or seedy rooms in commercial areas and advertise liberally in both print and local Indian TV channels. They promise '100% guaranteed results' against various problems like black magic, money and marital discord.
They charge those who arrive at their doorsteps an 'office fee' of about $20 to simply grant an audience. They then diagnose the problem, which could happen over a series of consultations, and demand additional sums for the prayers and rituals they do on behalf of the visitors.
Engaging these astrologers costs hundreds or thousands of dollars; a man reportedly spent twelve thousand dollars for availing their services.
According to Pratima Nand, local Indians, who sublet their premises for these astrologers, are partly to blame for the problem.
The New Zealand Immigration Department has taken a serious note of this issue and is said to be investigating six astrologers, who could be deported. They are also linking with community members of Indian origin to resolve the issues.