SGPC condemns attack on Sikh businessmen in Rishikesh, demands strict action

The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has strongly condemned the attack on two Sikh businessmen by a mob in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, as well as the vandalism of their showroom. The incident, which took place on Sunday, has sparked outrage, with calls for immediate action from the authorities.

In response to the attack, SGPC chief secretary Kulwant Singh Mannan has written to Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and the state police, demanding swift and stringent action against the perpetrators.

Mannan highlighted that viral footage of the incident clearly shows a mob physically assaulting the Sikh traders and pelting stones at their showroom, causing significant damage.

Mannan also pointed out that one of the attackers forcibly removed the turban of one of the victims, an act considered sacrilegious, and desecrated his Kes (unshorn hair). He urged the authorities to add charges related to hurting religious sentiments to the case against the culprits.

In his letter to the Chief Minister, he called for a fair and thorough investigation, the identification of all those responsible, and immediate legal action.