A Newcastle Gurdwara has issued a heartfelt statement following the murder of teenager Henry Nowak, describing the tragedy as a “horrific crime” and stressing that the actions of killer Vickrum Digwa do not represent Sikh values or the wider Sikh community.
Leaders at Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Newcastle said they were left “shocked” and “heartbroken” by the killing and offered their prayers and condolences to Henry’s family and friends.
The statement comes days after Digwa, 23, was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 21 years for murdering the University of Southampton student Henry Nowak on
“It is with profound sadness that we learned of the death of Henry Nowak,” the Gurdwara said.
“Our thoughts, prayers and heartfelt condolences are with Henry’s family, friends and all those affected by this devastating loss. No words can ease the pain of losing a loved one in such tragic circumstances.”
The Newcastle Gurdwara echoed a joint statement issued by Sikh organisations across the UK, condemning Digwa’s actions in the strongest possible terms.
“This was a horrific crime that has shocked people across the country,” the statement continued.
“It has also come as a deep shock to the Sikh community. The actions of the individual responsible were appalling and utterly unacceptable. Such behaviour is completely contrary to the values, ethics and teachings of Sikhism.”
Gurdwara leaders said the courts had found Digwa guilty and that responsibility for the murder rested solely with him.
“Violence, hatred and the taking of a human life have no place in Sikh teachings or values,” they said.
The statement acknowledged the wider impact the case has had on Sikhs across Britain, many of whom have expressed concern following online hostility directed towards the community after details of the case emerged.
“We respectfully encourage the North East Sikh congregation to remain alert and united, as the current political climate can present challenges where isolated incidents are sometimes used to unfairly stigmatise communities and deepen societal divisions.”
As a mark of respect, the Gurdwara announced it would hold a special Ardas (prayer service) for Henry and his family, praying they are given strength and comfort in the years ahead.
The statement concluded with a quotation attributed to the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji: “Recognise all humankind as one.”
The message has resonated far beyond the Sikh community.
Posted on social media, the statement attracted more than a thousand reactions and hundreds of supportive comments from members of the public.
Jan Clarke wrote: “A beautifully worded post. I am very much aware that this individual murderer is not representative of Sikhs. You shouldn’t have to apologise for him, but all credit to you for doing so.”
Another commenter, Nathan Beasley, praised the contribution Sikhs make to British society.
“Despite all the uproar, I feel safe in saying anyone who has spent any amount of time with Sikhs have nothing but respect for them,” he wrote.
“You’re a part of what makes Britain great and what you contribute to your local communities and broader society does not go unnoticed. Sending love to all our Sikh brothers and sisters.”
The response reflects a wider show of solidarity seen across the country following the sentencing, with Sikh MPs, community organisations and faith leaders united in condemning the murder while urging people not to hold an entire faith community responsible for the actions of one man.
The killing of Henry Nowak and the subsequent release of police bodycam footage showing his final moments have sparked national debate around policing, accountability and public trust.
But as calls continue for answers surrounding the police response, Sikh leaders across the UK have repeatedly stressed that the focus must remain on justice for Henry and support for his grieving family, rather than allowing the tragedy to fuel division between communities.
For many in the North East’s Sikh community, the Newcastle Gurdwara’s message serves as both a tribute to a young life lost and a reminder of the values of compassion, service and humanity that they say define their faith.
