'They speak only for themselves': UK Sikh group distance community from social media commentators Harman Kapoor, Bobby Singh
The UK Gurdwara Alliance has issued a public clarification stating that social media commentators Harman Kapoor and Bobby Singh do not represent the Sikh community, Sikh institutions or any recognised Sikh representative body.
In a statement, the organisations said neither individual had been authorised, appointed or mandated to speak on behalf of Sikhs. They stressed that views expressed by Kapoor, Singh or other independent commentators on social media should be regarded as personal opinions rather than the position of the wider Sikh community.
The statement urged media organisations, public bodies and other stakeholders not to treat the pair as representatives of Sikh views, arguing that Sikh positions emerge through collective deliberation and recognised Panthic institutions rather than individual influencers or commentators.
The clarification comes amid controversy surrounding comments and online activity linked to both men.
Bobby Singh, a social media personality, has faced criticism over remarks made during an Instagram Live in which he was accused by critics of expressing support for Vickrum Singh Digwa, the man convicted of murdering 18-year-old Henry Nowak, on the basis of what he described as Sikh "brotherhood". The comments prompted significant backlash on social media and were cited by opponents as evidence that his views do not represent the wider Sikh community.
Harman Kapoor, a London restaurant owner known for his outspoken views on Sikh and community issues, has also drawn criticism in recent months over comments made during an interview. Some Sikh groups have argued that his remarks on issues including the carrying of the kirpan and Sikh identity do not reflect mainstream Sikh views.
The organisations said the clarification was issued to prevent misrepresentation of the Sikh community and to protect the integrity of Sikh institutions and collective decision-making processes.
"The Sikh community has one voice: the collective voice of the Panth," the statement said.
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The clarification comes amid controversy surrounding comments and online activity linked to both men.
Harman Kapoor, a London restaurant owner known for his outspoken views on Sikh and community issues, has also drawn criticism in recent months over comments made during an interview. Some Sikh groups have argued that his remarks on issues including the carrying of the kirpan and Sikh identity do not reflect mainstream Sikh views.
The organisations said the clarification was issued to prevent misrepresentation of the Sikh community and to protect the integrity of Sikh institutions and collective decision-making processes.
"The Sikh community has one voice: the collective voice of the Panth," the statement said.
Catch the latest world news and top headlines. Download the TOI App.
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