In a chilling incident that has sent shockwaves through the Sikh community, a 29-year-old musician hailing from the vibrant lands of India met a tragic end in the heart of Alabama, USA. Raj Singh, affectionately known as Goldy, fell victim to what is suspected to be a hate-fueled attack outside a gurdwara in Selma, Alabama.
Goldy, a talented ‘ragi’ or Sikh hymn singer, had journeyed far from his home in the Tanda Sahuwala village of Bijnor district, Uttar Pradesh, to pursue his passion for music with a kirtan group in the United States. However, his dreams were shattered in an act of senseless violence when he was shot outside the sanctuary where he had found solace in his spiritual practice.
Details of the incident remain shrouded in sorrow and disbelief. Goldy was reportedly standing outside the gurdwara when he was mercilessly attacked by unidentified assailants. The news of his untimely demise reached his grieving family back in India a day later, leaving them in a state of shock and anguish.
“We were informed about the incident by relatives. It has been five days, and his post-mortem is yet to be done. We have reached out to the gurdwara committee for more information, and they are helping us. We have also appealed to our government for justice and the arrest of the killers,” expressed Gurdeep Singh, the bereaved brother-in-law of the deceased, as reported by the Times of India.
As the community grapples with the harrowing loss of one of its own, questions loom over the motive behind this heinous act. While authorities have yet to confirm the precise circumstances surrounding Goldy’s death, the Sikh diaspora is reeling with apprehension amid fears of a hate crime.
However, Selma police have stated that there is no apparent indication of racial motivation behind the killing, according to local news outlet GVWire, citing Sergeant Caleb Garcia. Despite this assurance, the tragic nature of Goldy’s demise has ignited a fervent call for justice and accountability.
The outpouring of support from both within and beyond the Sikh community serves as a beacon of solidarity in the face of adversity. Vigils, prayers, and calls for action reverberate across continents as Goldy’s memory is honored and his legacy celebrated.
As investigations into this senseless act continue, the world watches with bated breath, hoping for swift justice and an end to the scourge of hatred that has claimed yet another innocent life. In the midst of sorrow, the spirit of resilience and unity prevails, as communities stand united against intolerance and violence, echoing the timeless refrain: “Sarbat da bhala” – May the good of all prevail.
