2 Sikhs shot dead outside Gurdwara in Italy; SGPC asks govt of India to ensure justice

AMRITSAR: Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has expressed shock over the killing of two Sikhs in Italy and strongly condemned the incident, calling it deeply disturbing.SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami on Sunday appealed to the Govt of India to take up the matter with Italian authorities to ensure justice and urged the Italian govt to take immediate and stringent action against those responsible.According to media reports, two Indian men — Rajinder Singh, 48, a resident of Covo, and Gurmeet Singh of Agnadello — were shot dead late last Friday night outside Gurdwara Mata Sahib Kaur Ji in Covo, located in the industrial area of Bergamo in the Lombardy region. Another person was also injured in the attack.Dhami said the incident has sent shockwaves across Sikh communities worldwide. While terming it a matter of grave concern, he said that gurdwaras have always stood as symbols of peace, service and universal brotherhood, and any act of violence at such places is extremely alarming.Citing initial reports, the Italian reports says that the assailant — suspected to be of Indian origin — allegedly approached the victims and opened fire before fleeing the scene. Italian investigators believe the attack was not a result of a sudden altercation but a "coldly planned execution". Reports suggest around 10 shots were fired, killing the victims on the spot.Italian authorities have launched a detailed probe, examining CCTV footage, collecting forensic evidence and questioning witnesses to identify and apprehend the culprits.Dhami said Sikhs have always followed the path shown by the Gurus and have always been promoting harmony and brotherhood globally. Through gurdwaras, they have consistently contributed to the welfare of society, he added, saying that such incidents occurring at places that spread the message of universal brotherhood are extremely serious.Dhami also expressed his condolences to the families of Rajinder Singh and Gurmeet Singh.