LONDON-Statement from Sikh MPs on the murder of Henry Nowak
We stand in solidarity with the family and loved ones of Henry Nowak following the senseless and tragic loss of his life.
Our thoughts are with them as they continue to endure unimaginable grief. Nothing can lessen the pain of losing a son, brother and friend in such horrific circumstances.
This case was about the murder of Henry Nowak by Vickrum Digwa. It was not about religion or racism. It was the criminal act of an individual who alone bears responsibility for his actions.
A jury found Digwa guilty of murder and he has been sentenced to life imprisonment. The legal process operated as it should with no special treatment afforded, no religious exemption protected criminal behaviour, and justice was delivered through the rule of law. The judge was clear that Digwa abused the responsibilities that accompany religious freedoms and that his actions stirred racial tension and caused fear within the Sikh community itself.
Across the country, Sikhs have responded with an outpouring of sympathy and condolences for Henry’s family. Sikh organisations, gurdwaras and community leaders have been swift, public and unequivocal in condemning Digwa’s actions and the false claims he made in an apparent attempt to evade responsibility for his crime.
We are deeply distressed by the circumstances surrounding Henry’s death, including the body worn video footage and the treatment he received in his final moments. The questions that have been raised deserve proper examination through the ongoing processes already under way. Henry’s family deserve answers, and confidence that lessons will be learned.
At a time when emotions are understandably raw, we urge people not to allow the actions of one murderer to divide communities or fuel hostility towards innocent people. The Sikh community shares the grief, shock and anger felt across the country. We mourn Henry Nowak, stand with his family, and support the pursuit of truth, justice and accountability.
Jas Athwal, Chair of APPG British Sikhs
Satvir Kaur MP, Kirith Entwistle MP, Warinder Juss MP, Preet Kaur Gill MP, Harpreet Kaur Uppal MP, Sonia Kumar MP, Jeevun Sandher MP, Baggy Shanker MP, Gurinder Singh Josan MP, Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi MP
