British Sikh MPs and peers have taken the social media platform and the House of Commons debate to protest against the atrocities over Afghani Sikhs, many of who died in an unprecedented terrorist attack in Kabul that killed 25.
After the incident, many among Afghanistan’s dwindling Sikh minority are now considering leaving for neighbouring India.
Gunmen and suicide bombers killed at least 25 worshippers, including women and children, and injured many others in an early morning attack on a Sikh Gurdwara in the heart of Kabul.
The attack lasted hours as the gunmen held hostages on Wednesday while Afghan special forces and international troops tried to end the siege in a complex that is home to many families, as well as a place of worship, reported The Guardian. Up to 200 people were trapped inside the Gurdwara when the attack began at about 7am, interrupting worship that had started at 6am. It is alleged the attack was an ISIS terrorist with links in Kerala, India.
30 years ago, Afghanistan had 500,000 Sikh families, now it has a dwindling number of 300. Many have run away from the country though protected by the law of the country, but frequently targeted by extremists and subjected to discrimination.
Preet Gill MP, who is an active voice among Sikhs in the UK said, “Really saddened to hear the news of Gurdwara attack in Kabul.”
At the House of Commons, Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi who paid deepest condolence to the families of victims many of who live in the UK now. He added that those families have no recourse to public funds as asylum seekers, and they should have adequate support during this time of crisis.
Lord Rami Ranger added, “Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, please condemn this barbaric murderous attack on the innocent Sikhs inspired by ISIS ideology.” He also requested the UK government to extend them a refugee status in the UK.
The Southall Gurdwara in a statement said, “Afghan Ekta Cultural Religious community Centre t/a Gurdwara Guru Nanak Darbar, Southall represents the Afghan-Sikh community worldwide and condemns this cowardly attack claiming lives of innocent. We are in close contact with the family members of victims in Kabul and seeking help from the UK and other government agencies to ensure safety of the Afghan Sikh families in Afghanistan.”
