MPs Raise Concerns About Sikhs' Safety, Urge Action from Minister

MPs representing areas with significant Sikh populations have expressed their constituents' safety concerns to Security Minister Tom Tugendhat.

They referenced reports of life threats to individuals advocating Sikh independence.

British Sikhs, even non-activists, are increasingly worried about their safety, citing India as the source. However, there's been no formal confirmation of this.

International incidents, such as an alleged murder in Vancouver by Indian forces and a thwarted assassination plot in New York, have heightened these fears.

Preet Kaur Gill, MP for Birmingham Edgbaston, shared that her Sikh constituents feel an unprecedented level of concern, expecting firm government action against the threats.

During the meeting, MPs requested specifics on police protection for those at risk and brought up Avtar Singh Khanda's death. Khanda had been threatened and investigated by Indian authorities, and despite West Midlands Police finding nothing suspicious, his family demands an inquest.

Gill has asked the Security Minister to engage with the local community for reassurance.

The government responded by underscoring its commitment to safeguarding individual rights and acknowledging the vital contributions of British Sikhs to society.