SGPC, Akal Takht flay attack on Sikh trader in Rishikesh
The Akal Takht and the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) have condemned the attack on two Sikh businessmen in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, by a mob and the vandalism of their showroom.
The viral footage of the attack that took place on Sunday shows a mob not only physically assaulting the Sikh traders, but also pelting their showrooms with stones, causing significant damage.
Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh expressed concern over the incident, where one of the victims was physically assaulted and his turban and “kes” (unshorn hair) were disrespected.
He termed it as a shameful act for the democratic fabric of the nation that an angry mob targeted a Sikh’s turban and “kes” over a minor dispute and the law enforcement remained passive observers.
He urged the Punjab Government to take up the matter with the Uttarakhand Government to ensure strong legal action against those responsible for the attack.
SGPC chief secretary Kulwant Singh Mannan has written to Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami and the state police, demanding swift action against the perpetrators. He urged the Uttarakhand authorities to add sections of hurting religious sentiments against the culprits.
“We demand a fair investigation, identify all culprits, and take immediate legal action. Soon a delegation of SGPC will meet the victims and Uttarakhand Government officials,” he said.
Meanwhile, MP Vikramjit Singh Sawhney has also written to the Uttarakhand Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (Retd), seeking prompt action against the culprits.
