It seems no lessons have been learned from the stabbing of Henry Nowak in Southampton by Vickrum Digwa, a Sikh. Although the crime was not committed with the kirpan he carried, the incident raised widespread concerns about the Sikhs’ right to carry one, while it is denied to other citizens. It was an act carried out by an individual but it has created problems for the entire community. The privilege granted to Sikhs is premised on the assumption that it will never be misused, indeed, it would serve the purpose it was meant for – upholding righteousness under every circumstance.
Unfortunately, the recent use of swords by Nihangs in an altercation with locals that took place in Karnaprayag on Tuesday, resulting in serious injuries to a young man, has brought into focus again the misuse of this religious privilege. In fact, while Sikhs carry kirpans, many of which are symbolic in that they are small in size, Nihang Sikhs have been allowed to carry swords and spears out of regard for their ascetic nature. The Karnaprayag incident was by no means the first of its kind – such meltdowns have been quite frequent in the past.
The question that is being raised by the people of the state is why people of a particular denomination should be allowed to undertake the Hemkund Sahib Pilgrimage armed in this way. There have been all kinds of strict actions against lawbreakers, particularly since the UCC has come into force – with mazaars and masjids being demolished, ‘kalnemis’ being caught, etc. – why should a special privilege be granted to those who do not practice what they preach.
It may be noted that strictness with regard to ‘beadbi’ towards the Guru Granth Sahib and Sikh practices has been made a criminal offence in Punjab, with quite serious punishments prescribed. (Ironically, the state’s Chief Minister, Bhagwant Mann, is on the receiving end of allegations in this regard.) What does this particular law have to say about the Nihangs’ aggressive, irresponsible and dangerous behavior? Can they be allowed to bring disrepute to their panth?
There is need for exemplary action to be taken by the Uttarakhand Government and the Sikh community with regard to the Karnaprayag incident. Also, while it may be a painful decision to take, such jathas should not be allowed to carry weapons with them. Additionally, the Akal Takht should issue strict and specific guidelines about how the kirpan should be borne. The impact of such incidents in the present day goes much beyond India’s borders and provides fuel to the anti-immigrant sentiment being witnessed in many countries today.
