Vickrum Digwa guilty: Sikh community ‘faced considerable abuse and hatred’ after fatal Henry Nowak stabbing
It was alleged that the Sikh community “faced significant harassment and hatred” during Vickrum Digwa’s trial.
The UK Sikh Federation added that the police arrest of the dying victim “unnecessarily incited hatred in the community”.
It was also highlighted that the jury at Southampton Crown Court was told that the case “was not about Sikhism or racism, but about the unlawful killing of Henry Nowak”.
The UK Sikh Federation said in a statement: “Henry’s life was cut tragically short by a moment of madness from one man for whom there is no excuse.
“The jury heard evidence of an argument and allegations of racial abuse prior to the incident, but ultimately rejected Vickrum Digwa’s claim of self-defence.
“Prosecution counsel told the jury that in the prosecution’s case it was not about Sikhism or racism but about the unlawful killing of Henry.
“However, the wider Sikh community faced unacceptably serious harassment and hatred during the trial because many people did not understand the law, the importance of the kirpan or the responsibility that comes with wearing the kirpan.
“Police officers handcuffing the victim just before he died did not help and give many people the opportunity to criticize the police, but it also unnecessarily fueled hatred in the community.”
The organization also said it would raise awareness of the law and guidance regarding the carrying of ceremonial kirpan blades.
The statement said: “Now that the hearing is over, we want to make it clear that the law only provides a defense under the law for practicing Sikhs to wear the kirpan for religious reasons.
“If a kirpan or a bladed object is used aggressively in an act of violence, the defense under the law for the kirpan does not apply and is considered an offensive weapon.
“We understand that the weapon that may have been used in this case was not the normal kirpan that Sikhs practice in full force.
“This nuance is critical and may not have been explained or understood by those asked to testify in this case.
“This was an isolated incident, the Sikh community is committed to promoting better understanding and ensuring lessons are learned.
“Sikhs who wear the kirpan and practice it fully must continue to recognize the limited legal protection available for wearing the kirpan for bona fide religious purposes, as well as the serious responsibility that this brings.
“Following the Crime and Policing Act 2026, which came into force a few weeks ago, we will ensure that anyone who possesses a simple weapon with the intention of using it to cause unlawful violence will face a maximum prison sentence of up to seven years.”
