Edmonton: A Sikh truck driver from British Columbia was allegedly assaulted inside a Walmart store in south Edmonton in an incident that has triggered outrage among members of the Sikh community and prompted an investigation by the Edmonton Police Service’s Hate Crime Unit.
The victim, identified as Talwinder Singh Atwal, was reportedly in Edmonton for work when the confrontation took place at a Walmart Supercentre on Tamarack Way on August 6. A video of the incident surfaced online several days later, drawing widespread attention.
According to accounts of the incident, Atwal was allegedly subjected to racist and religious remarks before the confrontation turned physical. He was reportedly punched in the face and had his beard pulled during the altercation. His dastar was also dislodged during the incident.
The World Sikh Organization of Canada (WSO) has described the episode as an alleged hate-motivated assault and called for strong action against those responsible.
Police examine incident as possible hate crime
The Edmonton Police Service has taken up the matter through its Hate Crime Unit. Investigators are understood to be examining available CCTV footage from the Walmart premises as they work to establish what happened and identify those involved.
The alleged attackers reportedly left the location before police arrived.
The incident gained renewed attention after footage circulated on social media, with members of the Sikh community calling for a thorough investigation and appropriate legal action.
WSO seeks strict action
Balpreet Singh, legal counsel for the World Sikh Organization of Canada, condemned the reported assault and said the circumstances pointed towards the victim being targeted because of his Sikh appearance and attire.
The organisation has urged Edmonton Police to investigate the incident seriously and take action against everyone found to have been involved.
The WSO has also raised concerns over the initial police response to the incident. Atwal, according to the organisation and local reports, expressed disappointment over how the matter was handled when officers first arrived.
Incident sparks concern among Sikh community
The alleged assault has once again brought attention to concerns surrounding racism and hate-motivated incidents faced by members of Canada’s Sikh community.
For Atwal, who was reportedly in Edmonton as part of his work as a truck driver, the incident has also raised questions about the safety of people wearing visible articles of religious faith in public spaces.
The investigation remains underway. Police are expected to examine video evidence and other available information before determining the charges, if any, against those involved.
