Sri Akal Takht Jathedar condemns UK murder, warns against targeting Sikh community over individual’s crime
Kulwinder Singh
Amritsar (Punjab), June 5, 2026: Giani Kuldip Singh Gargajj, Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, has expressed condolences to the family of British youth Henry Nowak and urged people not to use the case to stigmatize the entire Sikh community.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Jathedar said he was saddened by the death of Henry Nowak and prayed for eternal peace for the departed soul while wishing strength to the bereaved family.
Referring to the conviction of Sikh man Vickrum Singh Digwa, who was sentenced by a UK court to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 21 years, Gargajj said the punishment was justified and in accordance with the law. He emphasized that those found guilty of crimes must face legal consequences regardless of their background.
However, he expressed concern over what he described as attempts by certain groups to use the case to target the Sikh community and demand restrictions on the Sikh article of faith, the Kirpan. He said the UK justice system had delivered its verdict through due process and that the Sikh community respected the court’s decision.
The Jathedar further stated that, according to information received from Sikh representatives in the United Kingdom, the weapon used in the crime was allegedly a Pesh Kabz (a Persian dagger) and not a Kirpan. He reiterated that the Kirpan, one of the five articles of faith in Sikhism, symbolizes the protection of the oppressed and the defence of justice, not violence or criminal activity.
Calling for unity and harmony, Gargajj urged Sikh organizations in the UK to stand in solidarity with Henry Nowak’s family during their time of grief. He also appealed to communities across Britain to reject efforts aimed at creating divisions or spreading hatred on the basis of religion or ethnicity.
The Akal Takht Jathedar noted the long-standing relationship between Sikhs and the United Kingdom, highlighting the community’s contributions to British society over generations, including service during the World Wars and participation in the country’s economic and social development.
He also called on the British government to remain vigilant against individuals or groups seeking to exploit the tragedy for political purposes and urged media organizations and social media platforms to report responsibly based on verified facts rather than promoting prejudice against any community.