Sikh Federation of U.K, and the entire Sikh community of Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, are rightly anguished at arrest of 55 Sikhs at a Gurudwara. They are demanding apology from Warwickshire police for disproportionate response to a call for help.
Sikh community is reputed for its volatile disposition. The group wearing masks carrying swords and kirpans forced their way into the Gurudwara. No negotiation orientated friendliness and peaceful nature of the protest was reported by the caller. Under such circumstances even a single unruly person might have caused violence that might have resulted in a lethal confrontation. Their decision was backed by swords and machette attacks in the past.
If not forearmed, Warwickshire police team would have earned wrath and ridicule of entire police force.
It seems that unsavory episode was caused by Gurudwara’s unclear stand on whether inter faith marriages should be solemnized in Gurudwara. Firm decision by the committee would deter any protest. If inter faith marriage is not allowed or permissible at Gurudwara, couple may marry at different venue. Marriage between Sikh and Hindu must be allowed at Gurudwara to promote goodwill among Indo-origin faiths.
Ramesh Jhalla
By email
