A 26-year-old pro-Khalistan Sikh extremist has been handed a 28-month prison sentence after pleading guilty to causing injury to two Indian-origin men and a female police officer during an Indian Independence Day-related community event in west London last year.
Gurpreet Singh, who appeared at Isleworth Crown Court on Wednesday, admitted to unlawfully wounding victims Aashish Sharma and Nanak Singh, causing actual bodily harm (ABH) to Police Constable (PC) Justine Nicolle Farrell, and a fourth count of affray.
The incident unfolded during the Independence Day event in Southall on the night of August 15 last year, marked by clashes between some pro-Khalistan extremists and law enforcement officers. Social media platforms were inundated with videos depicting the confrontation, capturing the tense moments as police pursued suspects.
A court official confirmed Singh’s sentencing, stating, “Gurpreet Singh was sentenced to 28 months’ imprisonment after he entered guilty pleas in respect of four counts on the indictment on January 12.”
During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Singh was carrying a kirpan, traditionally a religious symbol for Sikhs, which was utilized as a “weapon of offense” during the altercation. Furthermore, there is a possibility that Singh could face deportation to India following the completion of his sentence.
Metropolitan Police Superintendent Sean Lynch, who was responsible for neighborhood policing in west London at the time of the incident, acknowledged the concern sparked by the clash within the Southall and broader Sikh communities. He emphasized that despite the disturbance, the majority of the event remained peaceful and celebratory.
“We are aware of footage circulating on social media, with people also commenting on what they think happened. We would urge people to avoid echoing or adding to speculation. Fortunately, none of those injured were seriously hurt and there were no fatalities,” Superintendent Lynch remarked.
PC Justine Farrell, who played a role in detaining Singh, sustained a minor cut to her hand during the altercation, according to the Metropolitan Police, which did not require hospital treatment.
The sentencing of Gurpreet Singh serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding peace and order during public gatherings, particularly during events with cultural and political significance. It also highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in maintaining security amidst heightened tensions and differing viewpoints within communities.
