Henry Nowak: Sikhs scared to leave their homes over ‘politicisation’ of death

WorldPolitics
3 Jun 2026 • 8:55 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Henry Nowak: Sikhs scared to leave their homes over ‘politicisation’ of death

  • Violent clashes erupted in Southampton following the death of student Henry Nowak, whose killer, Vickrum Digwa, falsely accused him of racism, leading to a mistaken police response.
  • Sikh community leaders, including Jas Singh of Sikh Federation UK, have condemned Digwa's actions, stating they contradict Sikh teachings, but report widespread targeting and intimidation of Sikhs across the UK.
  • Far-right figures like Tommy Robinson and Nigel Farage, along with Reform UK and Restore Britain, have politicised the case, calling for a ban on the kirpan, despite it not being the weapon used in the killing.
  • Nigel Farage's call for “pure cold rage” was criticised as “irresponsible” and “unhelpful” by Policing Minister Sarah Jones, following the violent protests.
  • Sikh leaders express fear among their community, with reports of Sikhs being accosted and intimidated, and call for government support and a review into the police's handling of Mr Nowak's final moments.

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