Amritsar: Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, Acting Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib and Jathedar of Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib, has vehemently condemned the violent assault on 70-year-old Sikh elder Harpal Singh in North Hollywood, California. He demanded that the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) and American investigative authorities ensure strict and exemplary punishment for the perpetrator, emphasizing the need to register the case as a hate crime.
According to reports, Harpal Singh was viciously attacked with a golf club near the intersection of Setikoy Street and Lankershim Boulevard and is currently battling for his life in the hospital. A suspect has been apprehended by the LAPD, and Jathedar Gargaj stressed the importance of uncovering the motive behind the attack.
Citing the FBI’s 2024 Hate Crime Report, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj highlighted that despite a slight decrease in hate crimes targeting Sikhs in the U.S., Sikhs remain the third most targeted religious group, with 153 recorded attacks in 2024 alone. He called this a matter of grave concern that demands urgent attention.
To combat rising hate incidents, Gargaj urged Sikh organizations in the U.S. and abroad to intensify efforts in raising awareness about Sikh identity. He also encouraged the Sikh diaspora to unite, engage with local authorities, and demand enhanced security measures in their communities. He further advised elders to avoid walking alone and suggested that they stay in public spaces where help is accessible.
Describing the attack as an affront to the entire Sikh nation, Jathedar Gargaj appealed to the Indian External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, to intervene through Indian diplomatic channels to ensure the case is formally recognized as a hate crime and that stringent action is taken.
He assured Sr. Harpal Singh’s family of the full support of Sri Akal Takht Sahib and the global Sikh community during this challenging time. He also directed the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee to communicate formally with India’s Ministry of External Affairs to advocate for justice in this case.
