| R –V– Athwal & Athwal. The Surjit Athwal Murder Case |
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Metropolitan Police Sikh Association (MPSA) Press Statement. Surjit Kaur Athwal Central Criminal Court Murder Trial “Whosoever takes food from the slayers of daughters, Shall die unabsolved” (Guru Gobind Singh, Rehat nameh, pp.385. Cunningham, J.D. History of the Sikhs. 1st Publ: 1849). The MPSA, taking a clear steer from the Sikh Religion, condemns crimes against women, including Honour Killings. However, we accept that Sikhs, reverting to their Punjabi culture which is ingrained deeply in their psyche and belief system, are responsible for many girls like Surjit disappearing without trace. The outcome of the trial sends out a clear message to those that hide behind Sikhism to justify their horrendous crimes. Surjit’s case has in some respect, put Sikhism on trial. We acknowledge the persistence, patience and incredible bravery of the family and witnesses who have provided evidence on behalf of the Truth. We thank DCI Clive Driscoll for his tenacity, tact and compassion for this investigation and awareness of the broader issues. Honour Killing is the MPSA’s annual priority and we shall be working closely with the MPS and support organisations. The MPSA will be working with community leaders to ensure that the Sikh faith is not being distorted to support criminal acts We hope this verdict will not only deter offenders, but offer hope to those that are suffering from violence and abuse. The MPSA urge those that feel at risk of forced marriage, violence and abuse to contact the police. For Press: For further info contact MPSA 020 7230 0141 or Chair Micky Singh 07786 126531. Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it We can provide interviews around our work on HBV and also speak specifically about Surjit’s case. The above statement is independently provided by the MPSA. |