A published letter

3 Tishrei 5782

The obvious overreach of the police during the two days of Rosh Hashanah was most disturbing.

I am not referring to the police response to the clear violations of the current health regulations in the form of illegal prayer services. All Victorians must abide by the law even if they vehemently disagree with it.

I am referring to the many members of the Jewish community who, like last year, were participating in the Project High Holydays experience as sanctioned and approved by DHS and Victoria Police themselves! 

Although I am not on the committee of Rabbinical Council of Victoria (RCV) and was not party to any of their negotiations with the State Government or the police in the lead up to Rosh Hashanah, it is my understanding that the activities carried out under the auspices of the RCV were entirely lawful and did not warrant the excessive police intrusion being widely reported on in the community. 

Ordinarily, Victoria Police do an outstanding job and are rightfully applauded. On this occasion they have in my view fallen short of their responsibilities to the community and should apologise accordingly.

Rabbi Yaakov Glasman