AI Generated Summary
- A video released on social media by Gurinder Singh, coordinator of the Kalgidhar International School in Novellara, has drawn renewed attention to the institution and to broader concerns surrounding radical activity in the northern Italian town, long considered a focal point for radical networks.
- Novellara itself has previously featured in official and intelligence-linked reports as a hub of hardline Sikh activism in Europe, with the local gurdwara often described as a centre of operations for more radical elements within Unione Sikh Italia (SUI).
- The Kalgidhar International School, which primarily offers online classes in Punjabi language and Sikh cultural education, has been promoted as a platform to connect young members of the diaspora with their heritage.
A video released on social media by Gurinder Singh, coordinator of the Kalgidhar International School in Novellara, has drawn renewed attention to the institution and to broader concerns surrounding radical activity in the northern Italian town, long considered a focal point for radical networks.
In the video, Singh seeks to counter what he describes as “false rumours” circulating about the school and about his personal conduct. The Kalgidhar International School, which primarily offers online classes in Punjabi language and Sikh cultural education, has been promoted as a platform to connect young members of the diaspora with their heritage. However, critics allege that some of its content and associations risk exposing students to more radical ideological influences.
Novellara itself has previously featured in official and intelligence-linked reports as a hub of hardline Sikh activism in Europe, with the local gurdwara often described as a centre of operations for more radical elements within Unione Sikh Italia (SUI). These assessments have been referenced in multiple internal communications circulated earlier this year, underscoring the sensitivity surrounding institutions and individuals operating in the area.
The video has also revived controversy around Singh’s personal life. He addresses allegations of inappropriate relationships with women connected to the school, which he denies. According to sources familiar with the matter, one such episode reportedly escalated into a serious incident when an individual associated with the school allegedly discovered an affair involving his spouse. That individual was later hospitalised after consuming a poisonous substance, and sources say a case has been registered in connection with the incident. No court determination has yet been made, and all claims remain allegations.
Further complicating matters are questions about the school’s registered address. Records indicate that the address used by Kalgidhar International School is linked to Prithipal Singh, a relative of Gurinder Singh and the coordinator of the World Sikh Shaheed Military Yaadgari Committee (WSSMYC). The WSSMYC has been the subject of detailed reports by monitoring agencies for its ideological positioning and activities, raising concerns about overlapping networks and shared infrastructure.
The controversy has placed Prithipal Singh under pressure within community and organisational circles. attaching to the matter say he has been seeking external assistance, amid efforts by interlocutors to better understand the internal dynamics of SUI and to explore whether deradicalisation initiatives could be feasible.
Community leaders in Novellara have urged restraint, cautioning against drawing conclusions before investigations are completed. At the same time, they acknowledge that the episode highlights longstanding tensions within sections of the Sikh diaspora in Europe, where cultural education, religious identity, and political ideology often intersect in complex and sometimes troubling ways.
As authorities continue to monitor developments, the video and its fallout have reopened debate over oversight of online educational platforms, accountability of community leaders, and the challenge of preventing radicalisation while safeguarding legitimate cultural expression.
