Thursday, 9 October 2008
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Sikh Student Camp Should be Stopped Enough is enough!!
Sikh Student Camp has a history of distorting Gurmat and teaching the campers manmat in the guise of Sikhi. 2 years ago after some appalling incidents there was a nationwide call for the stoppage of this camp. However after talk and deep consideration it was decided, that a new Sevadaar team take over and improve the camp and take it back to a camp with Sikhi principles.
However this year again it has been exposed for anti-Gurmat activities. When doing camps the sevadars have a sense of responsibility. Each activity, talker and visitor must be given guidelines of what they can and can’t do. We try and be too liberal and compromise Gurmat. Guru Ji is our dictator and issues us commands; there is nothing liberal about Gurmat. You either listen to Guru Ji or you don’t.
When camps have twisted views and teach these twists views of Gurmat, they do more harm then good.
The main reason that most people go to camps in the first place is to check out the opposite sex. If w really wanted to learn about Sikhi we would have Same Sex camps.
A Sikhi camp should be brining people closer to maharaj, but these days’ people use them for their own agendas. Every camp sevadaar team is like a gang and all camps envy each other. No camp takes on the views of the Sangat. There seems to be a lot of ego “ours is the best”. Until the youth doesn’t come under the Nishan sahib together and help each other sort issues out, we will get these splinter cell problems. Anyways the Sikh Student Camp has been given so many chances by the mainstream sangat, however it keeps breaking Sikh ethics and principles.
Activities at the 2008 Sikh Student Camp.
Letter to Editor, by HS Bhatia
Sat Sri Akal.
I came across an old article on the Internet called ‘Disappointing Sikh Student Camp’. I wish to share this information with you. This year my friend sent his son to the Sikh Student Camp held in Chigwell at Guru Gobind Singh Khalsa College. His father sent him with good faith that he would learn about Sikhism and become a better Sikh. His friend recommended this camp to him and showed me the poster for the camp. They are a religious family with God’s blessings and their son is religious as well. He came back from this camp with a deranged view of Sikhism. It took a while to make him understand the real way of a Sikh. It took the whole of the family a while to convince him to the Guru’s way. His grandfather has great knowledge of Sikhism and Gurbani and spent a lot of time with him to unteach what he was taught at that camp. I wish to share this so that other parents are aware of this in future when considering sending their children to camps.
I was shocked by what my friend told me about this Sikh Student Camp 2008 and I am utterly disappointed.
The information given by my friend’s son about this Sikh Student Camp:
1) There was yoga in the Darbar Hall in the mornings whilst the Guru Granth Sahib’s parkash. For girls and boys to do funny postures together in the presence of the Guru Granth Sahib is not right. Such activities should be conducted in a separate classroom or hall. (FEMALES AND MALES SHOULD HAVE SEPARATE CLASSES)
2) There was an informative talk on Guru Arjun Dev and Shabad Hazaray story. He enjoyed the talk and information given. An American Sikh was the speaker. The speaker got the campers to make lines in the Darbar Hall. The girls were asked to face the boys in lines. The speaker got the boys to sing one line of Shabad Hazaray to the girls and the girls were made to sing the next line of Shabad hazaray to the boys. This is totally wrong and unacceptable. Shabad Hazary are for God’s praise and should not be used for singing to girls and this nonsense. This is worse than fake sant Babas who do nonsensical parchar.
3) We been taught from day one that there is One God. This is how the Guru Granth Sahib starts with Ek Onkar. He says that in one of the camp talks by someone called Mr. Panesar, he said that there is ‘no God’. People send their children to learn about God and they at this camp say there is no God and that God is human beings. This Mr. Panesar taught them a concentration technique, focusing on a dot and that there is no benefit in repeating Waheguru. This is a lie. Since my childhood I have been told and learnt that a Sikh repeats Satnam Waheguru Simran and concentration should be on the sound of Sirman. Where does this technique of focusing on dots in your mind come from? Sounds like a cult Baba technique.
4) I was shocked to hear that day one was a Bhangra day. He said that a DJ was invited to the camp who was swearing and saying rude things. Is this a Sikh camp or a Bhangra camp? (BHANGRA IS PUNJABI CULTURE NOTHING TO DO WITH SIKHI)
5) In a Q&A class, the American Sikh, Mr. Panesar and others were answering questions to campers. I am disgusted to know that the speakers told campers that homosexual relationships are allowed in Sikhism, that same-sex marriages should be permitted in Gurdwaras, that Sikhs can find their own partners and marry outside Sikhism. These views are totally inappropriate and are preaching totally wrong things. We bring up children and teach them to be respectable and marry a Sikh girl and not to get into relationships with others. (SIKHS BELIIVE IN REPRODUCTION , HOMOSEXUAL RELATIONSHIPS ARE ANTI GURMAT)
6) It was disheartening to hear that a camp leader who was wearing a nihung turban and big beard told campers that there is no need to keep Kesh to be a Sikh. How can someone keep turban and beard and say such a thing? The same camp leader said that the discipline a baptized Sikh has to follow is wearing the 5 Ks and no other rules need to be followed. Sikhism is a way of life and by wearing 5 Ks alone is not religion. This misguiding youngsters that it is okay to do anything you feel like.
7) I was shocked to know that a Mona (clean shaven) was given lead sewa in the Darbar. Being a Sikh camp I would have thought that if they could not find any Amrithdari Sikh to do sewa of the Guru Granth Sahib and do bhog of Sahaj Path then at least they could have asked Gurdwara Gianis to come.
8) My friend has always taught his children that keeping Kesh is important. But this camp has left negative impression on his son. He was sent to learn more about Sikhism because of the bad things you hear about happening in universities. But instead of bringing closer to Sikhism they have encouraged him that it is okay for a Sikh to go clubbing and parties. He no longer wears turban and instead ties a patka. This is shameful for his family.
SikhStudent Camp Issues - Meeting 1 Jul 2006, Gravesend, Kent
August 8, 2006 at 12:08 am (Sikh Student Camp)
In response to the serious issue of the rumours that are going around regarding the SikhStudent Camp held annually in Chigwell, Essex. On the 1 July 06 a meeting was held in Gravesend Gurdwara, Khalsa Avenue attended by concerned members of the Sikh sangat from around the UK and the Camp organisers. Below is a summary by one of the attendees (taken from www.MrSikhNet.com)
On Saturday 1st July, I attended a public meeting held at Gravesend Gurdwara, Khalsa Avenue, organised by our local elders of Gravesend with elders from Slough, Southall, East London and Midlands attending the meeting. This included ex-campers and ex-sewadars of the Camp sharing what they witnessed at the camp, which I am sure if anyone heard would be horrified by. These organisers acknowledged and accepted these statements. The meeting was filmed on video by someone from the Sikh Student Camp and was also recorded on MP3 by the Sangat. Previous to this meeting I had heard various rumours and Internet bashing, however this was the first time both sides sat down and the Sangat were made to know the true reality of the situation.
I don’t want to write an essay about all the things discussed in the meeting however I would like to share that some “very serious” issues were raised. The main issues, which I heard at the meeting, were:
a) Promotion of Sanatan Dharma, a fundamentalist Hindu interpretation of Sikhism, e.g. we were told that by campers that they were told that the kachera comes from Hanuman (monkey god), men dressed as nihung singhs cut themselves and put blood on the khanda of the nishaan sahib for 2 or 3 years running, and campers have been told that the “true guru” is not solely guru granth sahib but “three Granths”, i.e. dasam granth, sarbloh granth and guru granth sahib make up the “Guru”.
b) Lack of observance of Sikh code of conduct in darbar and generally the camp - the camp organisers admitted that a Big Brother style video was shown in the darbar which included campers singing Bhangra songs about women and liquor, also we were made aware that amritdharis which had publicly renounced Sikhism by cutting their hair were asked to do kirtan, clapping was encouraged in the Darbar. The camp organisers admitted that they had no control to control the situation.
c) Campers, but worryingly sevadars in the camp not observing correct behaviour with campers in particular females. It was admitted there were issues with “over friendliness” and a female ex-camper shared that sexually disgusting things were said to her for two years running and to her friends by sevadars running “discussions”.
The conclusion of the meeting was that the Elders said if the Camp organisers, 50 in number, cannot control a group of 10 people who attended the camp and afterwards admitted to the Camp organisers that they wished to sabotage the camp, then how could they control a possible 20, 30 or 40 wrong campers?
A lady who was in charge of last year’s security of the camp nicely summarised that “Security is the most important thing in a Camp. For any good camp you need excellent security. If we don’t have the man-power or capability to control campers then we shouldn’t do a camp.” An Elder said that the Sangat could send 30 or 40 men to help the security and “save the camp” however at the same time that would cause tension and aggression with those who attend the camp with the intention of causing trouble and fighting at the camp is not a solution but would be a further problem.
Deep and serious issue, so let’s not jump the gun. It’s good that we are all concerned and wish to help out. So let’s do that. I was happy that Internet Rumours and “Hear-say” were cleared at the meeting and the Sangat were made aware of the “THE” truth so that they could move forward to actually help the Organisers to address issues of immoral conduct, promotion of Hinduism in Sikh appearance to campers, loose behaviour and how basic Gurdwara etiquette has been observed.
So let’s pray and let’s try to do something positive. May God help us in keeping Sikhism’s purity and sincerity.
Gurdeep Sandhu
Also parents of children who have been to the camp and ex-campers are asked to convey any complaints they have about the previous camps and worries they have to Mr Toor, the Headmaster of Chigwell School, via email, letters or phonecalls:
Write To:
Guru Gobind Singh Khalsa College
Roding Lane
Chigwell
IG7 6BQ
Phone:
020 8559 9160
Email:
principal@ggskcollege.co.uk
toor@ggskcollege.co.uk
registerar@ggskcollege.co.uk
Email to Sikh Student Camp - Latest
August 17, 2006 at 6:26 pm (Sikh Student Camp)
On 8/8/06, Sikh Parents Awareness Society
Dear Sikh Student Camp 2006 Team
It is disheartening to read your request of details of the incidents that we have highlighted in the leaflet. If you remember a meeting with yourselves was organised by Seva Singh Lallee, Manjit Singh and other Gravesend Gurdwara Committee members in early July 2006. Not only did this meeting have representatives of the camp & the victims of the camp, but also had many members of Gravesend Sangat, because it was held in the Gurdwara Diwan hall.
Within this meeting all facts were presented to the Camp Organisers such as Gurmukh Singh, Randip Singh & Jasjot Singh. Furthermore to jog your memory this meeting has been captured on video by yourselves and we have an audio recording.
The culprits responsible for these and other incidents have been identified face to face and it is important to realise that you where dismissing these issues by saying those individuals have been banned for some time and so been dealt with. When the pictures of 2005 camp are reviewed those individuals are in the front during seminars and workshops. These same individuals were promoting the camp at “Keertan in the Park” in Hounslow, one week ago.
We have done nothing more but to given you suggestions and offer our help to stop these things from happen this year. Please remember our resolve to allow 10 or so of us to help out at your camp, this was flatly refused by Camp Organiser Gurmukh Singh of Gravesend.
Please acknowledge that within this meeting you agreed that these issues happened. Referring to the camp organiser who is head of security, she stated that if the Camp Organisers cannot implement controls then the camp should not happen. When we questioned about how these culprits were dealt with, Camp organisers like Gurmukh Singh refused to elaborate, again this doesn’t give us any confidence in your intentions.
Within some of the emails I have received people are asking to clarify the camp organisers. If you remember you agreed to submit to us a list of camp organisers so that we could differentiate the organisers from the culprits. As to this day we have not received this list. It looks as if you do not wish to differentiate the organisers from the culprits.
The details have been with the organisers for many weeks now and we are still awaiting any response or action
IS THE SIKH STUDENT CAMP LIVING UP TO its MISSION STATEMENT?
About Us
Who is Sikh Student?
The Sikh Student team consists of a base of 50+ volunteers largely centered in and around London. Our volunteers are current students, graduates and professionals - including teachers, lawyers, engineers, doctors, dentists, and persons serving in the army and police. Many of our volunteers are also actively engaged in seva (voluntary) for the Sikh community through other organisations, projects and local Gurudwaras.
What are the objectives of Sikh Student?
The objectives of Sikh Student are to provide opportunities for spiritual, personal and professional development of Sikh youth. In particular we look to achieve this by:
• Teaching the basics of Sikhi in a friendly & non judgmental environment.
• Allowing people to experience and develop their spirituality.
• Encouraging people to think about and explore their heritage.
• Encouraging youth to put something back into their communities
• Providing opportunities for personal development, and informal mentoring on careers and professions
If you have any questions get in touch!
Feel free to contact us if you need anymore info. You can contact us on 07522120862 or 07522118776.
However this year again it has been exposed for anti-Gurmat activities. When doing camps the sevadars have a sense of responsibility. Each activity, talker and visitor must be given guidelines of what they can and can’t do. We try and be too liberal and compromise Gurmat. Guru Ji is our dictator and issues us commands; there is nothing liberal about Gurmat. You either listen to Guru Ji or you don’t.
When camps have twisted views and teach these twists views of Gurmat, they do more harm then good.
The main reason that most people go to camps in the first place is to check out the opposite sex. If w really wanted to learn about Sikhi we would have Same Sex camps.
A Sikhi camp should be brining people closer to maharaj, but these days’ people use them for their own agendas. Every camp sevadaar team is like a gang and all camps envy each other. No camp takes on the views of the Sangat. There seems to be a lot of ego “ours is the best”. Until the youth doesn’t come under the Nishan sahib together and help each other sort issues out, we will get these splinter cell problems. Anyways the Sikh Student Camp has been given so many chances by the mainstream sangat, however it keeps breaking Sikh ethics and principles.
Activities at the 2008 Sikh Student Camp.
Letter to Editor, by HS Bhatia
Sat Sri Akal.
I came across an old article on the Internet called ‘Disappointing Sikh Student Camp’. I wish to share this information with you. This year my friend sent his son to the Sikh Student Camp held in Chigwell at Guru Gobind Singh Khalsa College. His father sent him with good faith that he would learn about Sikhism and become a better Sikh. His friend recommended this camp to him and showed me the poster for the camp. They are a religious family with God’s blessings and their son is religious as well. He came back from this camp with a deranged view of Sikhism. It took a while to make him understand the real way of a Sikh. It took the whole of the family a while to convince him to the Guru’s way. His grandfather has great knowledge of Sikhism and Gurbani and spent a lot of time with him to unteach what he was taught at that camp. I wish to share this so that other parents are aware of this in future when considering sending their children to camps.
I was shocked by what my friend told me about this Sikh Student Camp 2008 and I am utterly disappointed.
The information given by my friend’s son about this Sikh Student Camp:
1) There was yoga in the Darbar Hall in the mornings whilst the Guru Granth Sahib’s parkash. For girls and boys to do funny postures together in the presence of the Guru Granth Sahib is not right. Such activities should be conducted in a separate classroom or hall. (FEMALES AND MALES SHOULD HAVE SEPARATE CLASSES)
2) There was an informative talk on Guru Arjun Dev and Shabad Hazaray story. He enjoyed the talk and information given. An American Sikh was the speaker. The speaker got the campers to make lines in the Darbar Hall. The girls were asked to face the boys in lines. The speaker got the boys to sing one line of Shabad Hazaray to the girls and the girls were made to sing the next line of Shabad hazaray to the boys. This is totally wrong and unacceptable. Shabad Hazary are for God’s praise and should not be used for singing to girls and this nonsense. This is worse than fake sant Babas who do nonsensical parchar.
3) We been taught from day one that there is One God. This is how the Guru Granth Sahib starts with Ek Onkar. He says that in one of the camp talks by someone called Mr. Panesar, he said that there is ‘no God’. People send their children to learn about God and they at this camp say there is no God and that God is human beings. This Mr. Panesar taught them a concentration technique, focusing on a dot and that there is no benefit in repeating Waheguru. This is a lie. Since my childhood I have been told and learnt that a Sikh repeats Satnam Waheguru Simran and concentration should be on the sound of Sirman. Where does this technique of focusing on dots in your mind come from? Sounds like a cult Baba technique.
4) I was shocked to hear that day one was a Bhangra day. He said that a DJ was invited to the camp who was swearing and saying rude things. Is this a Sikh camp or a Bhangra camp? (BHANGRA IS PUNJABI CULTURE NOTHING TO DO WITH SIKHI)
5) In a Q&A class, the American Sikh, Mr. Panesar and others were answering questions to campers. I am disgusted to know that the speakers told campers that homosexual relationships are allowed in Sikhism, that same-sex marriages should be permitted in Gurdwaras, that Sikhs can find their own partners and marry outside Sikhism. These views are totally inappropriate and are preaching totally wrong things. We bring up children and teach them to be respectable and marry a Sikh girl and not to get into relationships with others. (SIKHS BELIIVE IN REPRODUCTION , HOMOSEXUAL RELATIONSHIPS ARE ANTI GURMAT)
6) It was disheartening to hear that a camp leader who was wearing a nihung turban and big beard told campers that there is no need to keep Kesh to be a Sikh. How can someone keep turban and beard and say such a thing? The same camp leader said that the discipline a baptized Sikh has to follow is wearing the 5 Ks and no other rules need to be followed. Sikhism is a way of life and by wearing 5 Ks alone is not religion. This misguiding youngsters that it is okay to do anything you feel like.
7) I was shocked to know that a Mona (clean shaven) was given lead sewa in the Darbar. Being a Sikh camp I would have thought that if they could not find any Amrithdari Sikh to do sewa of the Guru Granth Sahib and do bhog of Sahaj Path then at least they could have asked Gurdwara Gianis to come.
8) My friend has always taught his children that keeping Kesh is important. But this camp has left negative impression on his son. He was sent to learn more about Sikhism because of the bad things you hear about happening in universities. But instead of bringing closer to Sikhism they have encouraged him that it is okay for a Sikh to go clubbing and parties. He no longer wears turban and instead ties a patka. This is shameful for his family.
SikhStudent Camp Issues - Meeting 1 Jul 2006, Gravesend, Kent
August 8, 2006 at 12:08 am (Sikh Student Camp)
In response to the serious issue of the rumours that are going around regarding the SikhStudent Camp held annually in Chigwell, Essex. On the 1 July 06 a meeting was held in Gravesend Gurdwara, Khalsa Avenue attended by concerned members of the Sikh sangat from around the UK and the Camp organisers. Below is a summary by one of the attendees (taken from www.MrSikhNet.com)
On Saturday 1st July, I attended a public meeting held at Gravesend Gurdwara, Khalsa Avenue, organised by our local elders of Gravesend with elders from Slough, Southall, East London and Midlands attending the meeting. This included ex-campers and ex-sewadars of the Camp sharing what they witnessed at the camp, which I am sure if anyone heard would be horrified by. These organisers acknowledged and accepted these statements. The meeting was filmed on video by someone from the Sikh Student Camp and was also recorded on MP3 by the Sangat. Previous to this meeting I had heard various rumours and Internet bashing, however this was the first time both sides sat down and the Sangat were made to know the true reality of the situation.
I don’t want to write an essay about all the things discussed in the meeting however I would like to share that some “very serious” issues were raised. The main issues, which I heard at the meeting, were:
a) Promotion of Sanatan Dharma, a fundamentalist Hindu interpretation of Sikhism, e.g. we were told that by campers that they were told that the kachera comes from Hanuman (monkey god), men dressed as nihung singhs cut themselves and put blood on the khanda of the nishaan sahib for 2 or 3 years running, and campers have been told that the “true guru” is not solely guru granth sahib but “three Granths”, i.e. dasam granth, sarbloh granth and guru granth sahib make up the “Guru”.
b) Lack of observance of Sikh code of conduct in darbar and generally the camp - the camp organisers admitted that a Big Brother style video was shown in the darbar which included campers singing Bhangra songs about women and liquor, also we were made aware that amritdharis which had publicly renounced Sikhism by cutting their hair were asked to do kirtan, clapping was encouraged in the Darbar. The camp organisers admitted that they had no control to control the situation.
c) Campers, but worryingly sevadars in the camp not observing correct behaviour with campers in particular females. It was admitted there were issues with “over friendliness” and a female ex-camper shared that sexually disgusting things were said to her for two years running and to her friends by sevadars running “discussions”.
The conclusion of the meeting was that the Elders said if the Camp organisers, 50 in number, cannot control a group of 10 people who attended the camp and afterwards admitted to the Camp organisers that they wished to sabotage the camp, then how could they control a possible 20, 30 or 40 wrong campers?
A lady who was in charge of last year’s security of the camp nicely summarised that “Security is the most important thing in a Camp. For any good camp you need excellent security. If we don’t have the man-power or capability to control campers then we shouldn’t do a camp.” An Elder said that the Sangat could send 30 or 40 men to help the security and “save the camp” however at the same time that would cause tension and aggression with those who attend the camp with the intention of causing trouble and fighting at the camp is not a solution but would be a further problem.
Deep and serious issue, so let’s not jump the gun. It’s good that we are all concerned and wish to help out. So let’s do that. I was happy that Internet Rumours and “Hear-say” were cleared at the meeting and the Sangat were made aware of the “THE” truth so that they could move forward to actually help the Organisers to address issues of immoral conduct, promotion of Hinduism in Sikh appearance to campers, loose behaviour and how basic Gurdwara etiquette has been observed.
So let’s pray and let’s try to do something positive. May God help us in keeping Sikhism’s purity and sincerity.
Gurdeep Sandhu
Also parents of children who have been to the camp and ex-campers are asked to convey any complaints they have about the previous camps and worries they have to Mr Toor, the Headmaster of Chigwell School, via email, letters or phonecalls:
Write To:
Guru Gobind Singh Khalsa College
Roding Lane
Chigwell
IG7 6BQ
Phone:
020 8559 9160
Email:
principal@ggskcollege.co.uk
toor@ggskcollege.co.uk
registerar@ggskcollege.co.uk
Email to Sikh Student Camp - Latest
August 17, 2006 at 6:26 pm (Sikh Student Camp)
On 8/8/06, Sikh Parents Awareness Society
Dear Sikh Student Camp 2006 Team
It is disheartening to read your request of details of the incidents that we have highlighted in the leaflet. If you remember a meeting with yourselves was organised by Seva Singh Lallee, Manjit Singh and other Gravesend Gurdwara Committee members in early July 2006. Not only did this meeting have representatives of the camp & the victims of the camp, but also had many members of Gravesend Sangat, because it was held in the Gurdwara Diwan hall.
Within this meeting all facts were presented to the Camp Organisers such as Gurmukh Singh, Randip Singh & Jasjot Singh. Furthermore to jog your memory this meeting has been captured on video by yourselves and we have an audio recording.
The culprits responsible for these and other incidents have been identified face to face and it is important to realise that you where dismissing these issues by saying those individuals have been banned for some time and so been dealt with. When the pictures of 2005 camp are reviewed those individuals are in the front during seminars and workshops. These same individuals were promoting the camp at “Keertan in the Park” in Hounslow, one week ago.
We have done nothing more but to given you suggestions and offer our help to stop these things from happen this year. Please remember our resolve to allow 10 or so of us to help out at your camp, this was flatly refused by Camp Organiser Gurmukh Singh of Gravesend.
Please acknowledge that within this meeting you agreed that these issues happened. Referring to the camp organiser who is head of security, she stated that if the Camp Organisers cannot implement controls then the camp should not happen. When we questioned about how these culprits were dealt with, Camp organisers like Gurmukh Singh refused to elaborate, again this doesn’t give us any confidence in your intentions.
Within some of the emails I have received people are asking to clarify the camp organisers. If you remember you agreed to submit to us a list of camp organisers so that we could differentiate the organisers from the culprits. As to this day we have not received this list. It looks as if you do not wish to differentiate the organisers from the culprits.
The details have been with the organisers for many weeks now and we are still awaiting any response or action
IS THE SIKH STUDENT CAMP LIVING UP TO its MISSION STATEMENT?
About Us
Who is Sikh Student?
The Sikh Student team consists of a base of 50+ volunteers largely centered in and around London. Our volunteers are current students, graduates and professionals - including teachers, lawyers, engineers, doctors, dentists, and persons serving in the army and police. Many of our volunteers are also actively engaged in seva (voluntary) for the Sikh community through other organisations, projects and local Gurudwaras.
What are the objectives of Sikh Student?
The objectives of Sikh Student are to provide opportunities for spiritual, personal and professional development of Sikh youth. In particular we look to achieve this by:
• Teaching the basics of Sikhi in a friendly & non judgmental environment.
• Allowing people to experience and develop their spirituality.
• Encouraging people to think about and explore their heritage.
• Encouraging youth to put something back into their communities
• Providing opportunities for personal development, and informal mentoring on careers and professions
If you have any questions get in touch!
Feel free to contact us if you need anymore info. You can contact us on 07522120862 or 07522118776.
Wednesday, 8 October 2008
Student suicide over binge drink
A student killed herself after a row with her boyfriend over her binge drinking problems, an inquest heard yesterday.
Sophie Banks, 21, was drunk when she met Wayne Simpson, 24, in a club last Boxing Day night and stormed off after they rowed.
She was found hanged the next day. The inquest heard the forensic psychology student had studied different ways for people to die - including hanging.
Wayne told the hearing: "Sophie was already drunk and her sister said 'You need to talk to her'.
"I said I would when she was sober. I thought we could sort it in the morning."
Wayne went to her house Falmouth at 2am to find his belongings in the street and Sophie saying it was over.
In the three months she dated Wayne, Sophie - who had a history of self-harming - had cut herself twice and when he got home he was so concerned he called police.
Two officers called at her house, but did not enter.
Next day, mum Andrea and sister Samantha found Sophie hanged from a banister with a scarf.
A postmortem showed she had 181 milligrams of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood - more than twice the drink-drive limit.
Sophie's GP Dr Rob Beckett said he had referred her to a specialist who recommended she seek help for binge drinking. He said: "She was anxious, but not depressed. She had no suicidal thoughts, but she was binge drinking once or twice a week."
Andrea said: "She just didn't want to be here - it's as simple as that."
She added Sophie had studied books on suicide at Camborne College.
She said: "She did a section on how people could take their lives, including hanging. She knew what to do and meant to do it." Verdict: Suicide.
She sent me texts saying she wanted to find peace and I think now she has.
Sophie Banks, 21, was drunk when she met Wayne Simpson, 24, in a club last Boxing Day night and stormed off after they rowed.
She was found hanged the next day. The inquest heard the forensic psychology student had studied different ways for people to die - including hanging.
Wayne told the hearing: "Sophie was already drunk and her sister said 'You need to talk to her'.
"I said I would when she was sober. I thought we could sort it in the morning."
Wayne went to her house Falmouth at 2am to find his belongings in the street and Sophie saying it was over.
In the three months she dated Wayne, Sophie - who had a history of self-harming - had cut herself twice and when he got home he was so concerned he called police.
Two officers called at her house, but did not enter.
Next day, mum Andrea and sister Samantha found Sophie hanged from a banister with a scarf.
A postmortem showed she had 181 milligrams of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood - more than twice the drink-drive limit.
Sophie's GP Dr Rob Beckett said he had referred her to a specialist who recommended she seek help for binge drinking. He said: "She was anxious, but not depressed. She had no suicidal thoughts, but she was binge drinking once or twice a week."
Andrea said: "She just didn't want to be here - it's as simple as that."
She added Sophie had studied books on suicide at Camborne College.
She said: "She did a section on how people could take their lives, including hanging. She knew what to do and meant to do it." Verdict: Suicide.
She sent me texts saying she wanted to find peace and I think now she has.
Vodka bet binge kills student, 19
A STUDENT died of alcohol poisoning after pals challenged him to a £40 bet to down an almost full bottle of vodka.
Jason Venezia, 19, was dared to sink three-quarters of a litre at a rate of one shot every 45 seconds.
Twenty minutes later he had polished off half a litre in 15 shots and was so drunk he couldn’t stand or speak properly, an inquest heard yesterday.
Friends carried him to bed and checked on him every 15 minutes for two hours to make sure he did not choke on his own vomit.
But Jason, who was in his first year studying psychology at Warwick University, was found dead from acute alcohol poisoning at 2pm the next day.
His blood contained an incredible 499mg of alcohol — more than SIX TIMES the drink-drive limit of 80mg.
The inquest came four days after the BBC screened shocking footage of University of Gloucestershire students taking part in a Nazi-style drinking initiation.
Jason’s heartbroken parents, Ennio and Joan Venezia, from Solihull, West Midlands, demanded a ban on boozing games and called for the legal age for drinking to be raised from 18 to 21.
Mum Joan, 54, said: “Jason was not a heavy drinker. It’s hard to believe one night out with his friends led to this.
“Students need to know that their drinking games can lead to sudden death. Jason’s death is a devastating loss that we are struggling to come to terms with. We miss him deeply.”
Coventry coroner Sean McGovern said Jason died from alcohol misuse. Recording a misadventure verdict, he added: “We hope lessons will be learned, but it happens all the time.”
Jason Venezia, 19, was dared to sink three-quarters of a litre at a rate of one shot every 45 seconds.
Twenty minutes later he had polished off half a litre in 15 shots and was so drunk he couldn’t stand or speak properly, an inquest heard yesterday.
Friends carried him to bed and checked on him every 15 minutes for two hours to make sure he did not choke on his own vomit.
But Jason, who was in his first year studying psychology at Warwick University, was found dead from acute alcohol poisoning at 2pm the next day.
His blood contained an incredible 499mg of alcohol — more than SIX TIMES the drink-drive limit of 80mg.
The inquest came four days after the BBC screened shocking footage of University of Gloucestershire students taking part in a Nazi-style drinking initiation.
Jason’s heartbroken parents, Ennio and Joan Venezia, from Solihull, West Midlands, demanded a ban on boozing games and called for the legal age for drinking to be raised from 18 to 21.
Mum Joan, 54, said: “Jason was not a heavy drinker. It’s hard to believe one night out with his friends led to this.
“Students need to know that their drinking games can lead to sudden death. Jason’s death is a devastating loss that we are struggling to come to terms with. We miss him deeply.”
Coventry coroner Sean McGovern said Jason died from alcohol misuse. Recording a misadventure verdict, he added: “We hope lessons will be learned, but it happens all the time.”
Tuesday, 7 October 2008
A new Site By Muslim Gangs
Site takes piss and names and shames so called Sikh girls across the UK.
www.sikh4aweek.blogspot.com
www.sikh4aweek.blogspot.com
UK Sikh School neglects care of Gurdwara
Guru Gobind Singh Khalsa College, Chigwell (UK) Chigwell, London (KP) - Last week it was brought to Panthic Weekly's attention that Guru Gobind Singh Khalsa College, Chigwell, London, is doing beadbi (violating the sanctity) of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji by showing gross neglect and lack of care in managing and maintaining the Gurdwara which is within the school. The same school hosts the controversial ‘Sikh Student Camp’ every year. The same camp has come under the thick criticism for wrong parchaar, lack of observance of Gurmat Maryada, and a lack of discipline on behalf of camp sewadars. It was claimed by members of the Sikh Sangat that “the Chigwell sikh school are unaware of what their role is towards Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji.” Concerned members of the Sikh community reported that no one cleans the Gurdwara within the school and it looks in a sorry state. One Sangat member described their findings as, "I couldn't believe what I saw. Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is kept in a small cupboard like room, which is really untidy and a sheer embarrassment. I also found Gutke Sahibs just laying around at the back.” Students who attend the Guru Gobind Singh Khalsa College have also contacted Panthic Weekly in regards to gross beadbi (violation) of the Gurdwara within the school. One concerned pupil wrote, “A non-Sikh ‘couple’ were ‘making-out’ in the back of the Gurdwara, and much more has and is still going on in the Gurdwara within the school. The school has students from all different faiths and no one shows respect for the Gurdwara.” Another pupil of the school claimed that, “People swear in the Gurdwara. There is no discipline. They have no Amritdhari person to do Guru Mahraaj’s sewa. The tabla and vajas are kept on the side and many of them are broken. Also people pick out dry Parshaad themselves and there is no basic Maryada kept by pupils or enforced by the school staff. The children are told to wear hats in Darbar Sahib if they don’t like wearing rumaals.” Photos of Beadbi: It is disheartening for the whole Sikh community to see the deterioration of our Gurdwaras. Anyone institution, Gurdwara, or school who has set up a Guru Darbaar, has the responsibility to maintain the Sikh Rehat Maryada. We are celebrating 300 years of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji being bestowed eternal guruship by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, yet sections of the Sikh community have still not learnt how to treat Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji the utmost respect, reverence, and care. It seems beadbi has been taking place for a number of years while the school retains a name of a school based on ethics of the Sikh faith, but it does not function in adherence of the basic tenants. This comes with no surprise with the school being given to the ‘Sikh Student Camp’ to hold a yearly summer camp, which has been widely reported as having many problems it self. Panthic Weekly urges the local community along with the UK Sikh Sangat to contact Guru Gobind Singh Khalsa College, Chigwell, and ask them to take appropriate action: Guru Gobind Singh Khalsa College
Gutka Sahibs kept in boxes stacked up together
Gutka Sahibs kept uncovered with little care and attention
Sachkhand is a small cupboard like room which is used for storage as well as for the resting place for Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji
Vajas and Tablas dumped in a corner of Darbar Sahib next to Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, alongside bags of rubbish
Bags littering the way to get to Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji
Roding Lane
Chigwell
Essex
IG7 6BQ
E-mail : info@ggskcollege.co.uk
Phone: 020 8559 9160
Disappointing Sikh Student Camp 2008
Letter to Editor, by HS Bhatia
Sat Sri Akal.
I came across an old article on the Internet called ‘Disappointing Sikh Student Camp’. I wish to share this information with you. This year my friend sent his son to the Sikh Student Camp held in Chigwell at Guru Gobind Singh Khalsa College. His father sent him with good faith that he would learn about Sikhism and become a better Sikh. His friend recommended this camp to him and showed me the poster for the camp. They are a religious family with God’s blessings and their son is religious as well. He came back from this camp with a deranged view of Sikhism. It took a while to make him understand the real way of a Sikh. It took the whole of the family a while to convince him to the Guru’s way. His grandfather has great knowledge of Sikhism and Gurbani and spent a lot of time with him to unteach what he was taught at that camp. I wish to share this so that other parents are aware of this in future when considering sending their children to camps.
I was shocked by what my friend told me about this Sikh Student Camp 2008 and I am utterly disappointed.
The information given by my friend’s son about this Sikh Student Camp:
1) There was yoga in the Darbar Hall in the mornings whilst the Guru Granth Sahib’s parkash. For girls and boys to do funny postures together in the presence of the Guru Granth Sahib is not right. Such activities should be conducted in a separate classroom or hall.
2) There was an informative talk on Guru Arjun Dev and Shabad Hazaray story. He enjoyed the talk and information given. An American Sikh was the speaker. The speaker got the campers to make lines in the Darbar Hall. The girls were asked to face the boys in lines. The speaker got the boys to sing one line of Shabad Hazaray to the girls and the girls were made to sing the next line of Shabad hazaray to the boys. This is totally wrong and unacceptable. Shabad Hazary are for God’s praise and should not be used for singing to girls and this nonsense. This is worse than fake sant Babas who do nonsensical parchar.
3) We been taught from day one that there is One God. This is how the Guru Granth Sahib starts with Ek Onkar. He says that in one of the camp talks by someone called Mr. Panesar, he said that there is ‘no God’. People send their children to learn about God and they at this camp say there is no God and that God is human beings. This Mr. Panesar taught them a concentration technique, focusing on a dot and that there is no benefit in repeating Waheguru. This is a lie. Since my childhood I have been told and learnt that a Sikh repeats Satnam Waheguru Simran and concentration should be on the sound of Sirman. Where does this technique of focusing on dots in your mind come from? Sounds like a cult Baba technique.
4) I was shocked to hear that day one was a Bhangra day. He said that a DJ was invited to the camp who was swearing and saying rude things. Is this a Sikh camp or a Bhangra camp?
5) In a Q&A class, the American Sikh, Mr. Panesar and others were answering questions to campers. I am disgusted to know that the speakers told campers that homosexual relationships are allowed in Sikhism, that same-sex marriages should be permitted in Gurdwaras, that Sikhs can find their own partners and marry outside Sikhism. These views are totally inappropriate and are preaching totally wrong things. We bring up children and teach them to be respectable and marry a Sikh girl and not to get into relationships with others.
6) It was disheartening to hear that a camp leader who was wearing a nihung turban and big beard told campers that there is no need to keep Kesh to be a Sikh. How can someone keep turban and beard and say such a thing? The same camp leader said that the discipline a baptized Sikh has to follow is wearing the 5 Ks and no other rules need to be followed. Sikhism is a way of life and by wearing 5 Ks alone is not religion. This misguiding youngsters that it is okay to do anything you feel like.
7) I was shocked to know that a Mona (clean shaven) was given lead sewa in the Darbar. Being a Sikh camp I would have thought that if they could not find any Amrithdari Sikh to do sewa of the Guru Granth Sahib and do bhog of Sahaj Path then at least they could have asked Gurdwara Gianis to come.
8) My friend has always taught his children that keeping Kesh is important. But this camp has left negative impression on his son. He was sent to learn more about Sikhism because of the bad things you hear about happening in universities. But instead of bringing closer to Sikhism they have encouraged him that it is okay for a Sikh to go clubbing and parties. He no longer wears turban and instead ties a patka. This is shameful for his family.
2) There was an informative talk on Guru Arjun Dev and Shabad Hazaray story. He enjoyed the talk and information given. An American Sikh was the speaker. The speaker got the campers to make lines in the Darbar Hall. The girls were asked to face the boys in lines. The speaker got the boys to sing one line of Shabad Hazaray to the girls and the girls were made to sing the next line of Shabad hazaray to the boys. This is totally wrong and unacceptable. Shabad Hazary are for God’s praise and should not be used for singing to girls and this nonsense. This is worse than fake sant Babas who do nonsensical parchar.
3) We been taught from day one that there is One God. This is how the Guru Granth Sahib starts with Ek Onkar. He says that in one of the camp talks by someone called Mr. Panesar, he said that there is ‘no God’. People send their children to learn about God and they at this camp say there is no God and that God is human beings. This Mr. Panesar taught them a concentration technique, focusing on a dot and that there is no benefit in repeating Waheguru. This is a lie. Since my childhood I have been told and learnt that a Sikh repeats Satnam Waheguru Simran and concentration should be on the sound of Sirman. Where does this technique of focusing on dots in your mind come from? Sounds like a cult Baba technique.
4) I was shocked to hear that day one was a Bhangra day. He said that a DJ was invited to the camp who was swearing and saying rude things. Is this a Sikh camp or a Bhangra camp?
5) In a Q&A class, the American Sikh, Mr. Panesar and others were answering questions to campers. I am disgusted to know that the speakers told campers that homosexual relationships are allowed in Sikhism, that same-sex marriages should be permitted in Gurdwaras, that Sikhs can find their own partners and marry outside Sikhism. These views are totally inappropriate and are preaching totally wrong things. We bring up children and teach them to be respectable and marry a Sikh girl and not to get into relationships with others.
6) It was disheartening to hear that a camp leader who was wearing a nihung turban and big beard told campers that there is no need to keep Kesh to be a Sikh. How can someone keep turban and beard and say such a thing? The same camp leader said that the discipline a baptized Sikh has to follow is wearing the 5 Ks and no other rules need to be followed. Sikhism is a way of life and by wearing 5 Ks alone is not religion. This misguiding youngsters that it is okay to do anything you feel like.
7) I was shocked to know that a Mona (clean shaven) was given lead sewa in the Darbar. Being a Sikh camp I would have thought that if they could not find any Amrithdari Sikh to do sewa of the Guru Granth Sahib and do bhog of Sahaj Path then at least they could have asked Gurdwara Gianis to come.
8) My friend has always taught his children that keeping Kesh is important. But this camp has left negative impression on his son. He was sent to learn more about Sikhism because of the bad things you hear about happening in universities. But instead of bringing closer to Sikhism they have encouraged him that it is okay for a Sikh to go clubbing and parties. He no longer wears turban and instead ties a patka. This is shameful for his family.
I hope Panthic Weekly and Panjab Radio will both act on this matter. As I find it very serious matter and need action taking as soon as possible.
Sat Sri Akal
HS Bhatia
Is Project Naad now supporting Dera Jhoota Sauda Sirsa Cult ? (Editorial) Friday 25th of July 2008
...we hear talk of someone impersonating Guru Gobind Singh ... how is this disrespectful ....Also he did an Amrit ceremnoy with 7 people instead of 5. So what? - recent Project Naad statement
In the past year or so a website has emerged called “Project Naad” (www.projectnaad.com). This website claims to be a charitable organization which is committed to “producing high quality freely distributable content for propagating the Sikh way of life.” Project Naad states that the content of their website is intended for university students, Gurdwaras and Interfaith work. In theory the website and the motivation of ‘Project Naad’ seems very good. However, after close analysis of the Project Naad website, the content of their articles & leaflets, and comments posted on various message boards & forums, it is apparent this website is doing anti-Gurmat parchaar in the guise of Sikhi.
In the past year or so a website has emerged called “Project Naad” (www.projectnaad.com). This website claims to be a charitable organization which is committed to “producing high quality freely distributable content for propagating the Sikh way of life.” Project Naad states that the content of their website is intended for university students, Gurdwaras and Interfaith work. In theory the website and the motivation of ‘Project Naad’ seems very good. However, after close analysis of the Project Naad website, the content of their articles & leaflets, and comments posted on various message boards & forums, it is apparent this website is doing anti-Gurmat parchaar in the guise of Sikhi.
We were shocked to read a statement from ProjectNaad.com, posted on the SikhNet discussion board on 2nd July 2008, which showed open support for Dera Jhoota Sauda and it’s leader ‘Ram Raheem’. The full statement can be read on the Discover Sikhi messageboard. Panthic Weekly presents the objectionable statements written by the Project Naad website with replies from the Gurmat perspective (kindly provided by ‘Sikh Answers’):
QUOTE 1) There is some discussion about defining a sikh. There is not one answer and it depends how inclusive or exclusive we want to be. We at ProjectNaad would suggest that every living creature is a Sikh.... i.e. on a journey to realise truth. The traditional orders (sampardayas) in sikhi such as Nirmalas and Seva Panthis all have people who do not have the form of the Guru yet are 110% sikh
Anyone who does not faithfully believe in Khande Di Pahul (Amrit) and the Panj Kakaar, cannot be a Sikh. Modern Nirmalas and Udasis do not believe in Amrit or the Panj Kakaar and therefore are not Sikh. Anyone who practices and believes in the Sikh tenets is a Sikh. To argue that everyone is a Sikh is a wishy washy statement. Would you expect a Muslim to do Granthi Singh duty? Or would you allow a Christian to do Nishaan Sahib seva because he is a Sikh in your eyes? A Sikh has a set discipline, code of conduct and way of life. According to Guru Granth Sahib Ji and the Guru Khalsa Panth anyone who lives outside this conduct and discipline does not qualify as a Sikh. Everyone and anyone has a right to claim to be a Sikh.
The Panthic Sikh Rehit Maryada states:
Any human being who faithfully believes in* One Immortal Being,* Ten Gurus, from Guru Nanak Dev to Guru Gobind Singh* The Guru Granth Sahib,* The utterances and teachings of the ten Gurus and* the baptism (Khande di Pahul) bequeathed by the tenth Guru,* and who does not owe allegiance to any other religion, is a Sikh.
In addition to this, there are various Puraatan (old) Rahitnamas that convey the Hukam of Dashmesh Pita about a Sikh is one who has Kesh:
ਜਬ ਪਹਿਲੇ ਸਬ ਸਿ੍ਰਸਿਟ ਉਪਾਈ । ਤਬ ਹੀ ਮਾਨੁਖ ਦੇਹਿ ਬਨਾਈ ।ਤਨ ਇਸ ਕੇ ਸਿਰ ਕੇਸ ਜੁ ਦੀਨੋ । ਸੋ ਇਹ ਤਨ ਸ਼ਿੰਗਾਰਿਹ ਕੀਨੋ ।ਦਾੜ੍ਹਾ ਮੁੱਛ ਸਿਰ ਕੇਸ ਬਨਾਈ । ਹੈ ਇਹ ਦਿ੍ੜ ਜਿਹ ਪ੍ਰਭੂ ਰਜ਼ਾਈ ।ਮੇਟ ਰਜ਼ਾਇ ਜੁ ਸੀਸ ਮੁੰਡਾਵੈ । ਕਹੁ ਤੇ ਜਗ ਕੈਸੇ ਹਰਿ ਪਾਵੈ ।
“God created the whole universe and then he fashioned the human body. He gave man a beard, mustaches and hair on the head. He who submits to His Will steadfastly adheres to them. They who deny His Will how will they find God in this world?”(Bhai Desa Singh Rahitnama)
ਸਾਬਤ ਸੂਰਤ ਰੱਬ ਦੀ, ਭੰਨੇ ਬੇਈਮਾਨ।ਦਰਗਹਿ ਢੋਈ ਨਾ ਮਿਲੇ, ਕਾਫ਼ਰ, ਕੁੱਤਾ, ਸ਼ੈਤਾਨ।
"God has made the human perfect, but the dishonourable destroy it.They will find no place in the Court of God, like the unbeliever, dog and Satanist."(Guru Nanak, Janam Sakhi Bhai Bala)
ਗੁਰ ਕੀ ਛਾਪ ਸਿਰ ਕੇਸ ਕੀ ਪਾਹੁਲ, ਦੇਇ ਉਤਾਰ ਸੋ ਬੇਮੁਖ ਜਾਨਹੁ।ਬੇਟੇ ਕੋ ਬੰਧੁ ਕੋ ਛਾਪ ਮੁੰਡਾਵਤ, ਜਮ ਦੁਖ ਭੋਗ ਕੇ ਪ੍ਰੇਤ ਪਛਾਨਹੁ।"
The Guru's stamp is Kesh and (Khandi di) Pahul, one who removes (their Kesh) is known as an apostate (bemukh).One who shaves the stamp (of the Guru) of their child (i.e. cut their children's hair), realise that person will suffer a terrible death and known as a ghost." (Bhai Sahib Singh Rahtinama)
In addition to this Gurbani states:
ਸੋ ਸਿਖੁ ਸਖਾ ਬੰਧਪੁ ਹੈ ਭਾਈ ਜਿ ਗੁਰ ਕੇ ਭਾਣੇ ਵਿਚਿ ਆਵੈ ॥
"They alone are a Sikh, a friend, a relative and a sibling, who walks in the Way of the Guru's Will."(Ang 601)
QUOTE 2) Deras form a very important part of Punjab in terms of providing social, economic and spiritual services to society. They in fact provide the perfect model for propagating sikh dharma. One of the central reasons for why deras are so popular is the sgpc itself. If you create a Gurdwara in Punjab it comes under the automatic ownership of the sgpc. No one wants this and so people set up deras.
Are these observations based on research or speculation whilst sitting on the computer? If you have lived in Panjab then you will know that Deras are places for drugs, exploitation, sexual slavery, and misconduct. What happens behind close doors and what is preached on stage are different. Please refer to reports given to Panjab Police. I am sure you can access these files via media and direct.
QUOTE 3) Everyone has the right to practice whatever religion they want in whatever way. So for people who think that Deras should be closed...we would suggest you read the definition of of a Democracy.
Everyone has a right to live the life they wish. Guru Tegh Bahadur sacrificed himself for the fundamental human right of being able to live freely. However, a Sikh nor any law abiding citizen will condone behaviour or actions that insult others and cause harm. Dera of Ram Rahim has murdered journalists, cases of rape are filed against him and his dera, and in addition to this he is been investigated for fraud. Should the authorities allow these fat cats to continue exploitation and illegal activities under the garb of religion? Freedom is supported by the Khalsa, but Guru Arjan Dev Ji's martyrdom shows that a Sikh has and never will accept insult.
QUOTE 4) whether a Dera has illegal things going on inside or not is completely insignificant. The first woman president of the SGPC was rumoured to have killed her own daughter...lord knows what happens behind our own closed doors. So lets now point fingers at other peoples oppression or corruption because we are not clean by a long shot.
It is worrying that you think rape, murder, exploitation, and sexual slavery, as well as fraud under the garb of religion is "insignificant." The ancient Pandits and Maulvis had a similar thought.
However, the Sikh Gurus condemned these people and Bhagat Kabir Ji states:
ਓਇ ਹਰਿ ਕੇ ਸੰਤ ਨ ਆਖੀਅਹਿ ਬਾਨਾਰਸਿ ਕੇ ਠਗ ॥੧॥ਐਸੇ ਸੰਤ ਨ ਮੋ ਕਉ ਭਾਵਹਿ ॥
"They are not called Saints of the Lord - they are thugs of Benares. 1 Such 'saints' are not pleasing to me."(Ang 476)
Two wrongs don't make a right. Yes, Bibi Jagir Kaur murdered her daughter in an honour killing. This is totally wrong and she was removed as SGPC President. Also a criminal investigation was launched. Whereas Bibi Jagir Kaur murdered one person (her own daughter), these Deras, particular Ram Rahim has murdered 4 people up now (2 Sikhs and 2 journalists). In addition to this criminal cases are currently being processed which included rape, sexual slavery, exploitation and fraud. These Babas and Deras are abusing the masses and yet we focus on individual who have committed one crime?
QUOTE 5) We should give many condolences and blessings to the innocent person who was caught in this whole thing.
This is very good. We should pray for those killed. We should also realise who has killed who. If you analyze the whole saga objectively then you will know that no one person from the Dera has been murdered or raped by Sikhs. On the other hand, the Dera has initiated attacks on the Sikhs (verbally and physically) and also raped its own followers. Merely praying for people is not the actions of the Khalsa. The Khalsa should also have the courage and spirit to stand up to tyranny and injustice in whatever disguise it comes under.
QUOTE 6) We need to learn be less reactive as a community at the smallest things. This way we don't need to worry about bad press as much because people will not have ammunition against us.
If insulting Guru Gobind Singh Ji is "smallest thing" to you, then it is very shameful. Sikhs have not bad press. The bias media and vilified the innocent Sikhs protesting against a direct attack on the Sikhs. Would you also condemn the actions of Sikhs in 1978 who protested against the Nakli Nirankaris and got martyred? Learn from the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji - a Sikh will never accept insult and will always live and die with honour. If you are uncomfortable with this concept then you need to read Gurbani and re-visit Sikh history.
QUOTE 7) we hear talk of someone impersonating Guru Gobind Singh yet I fail to see how this is disrespectful when khalsa sikhs are supposed to impersonate Guru Gobind Singh ji in thought, word and deed? Also he did an Amrit ceremnoy with 7 people instead of 5. So what? He isn't asking sikhs to change their ceremonies and in a demcractic state he can practice his brand of spirituality however he chooses and wear whatever clothes he wants.
The Khalsa is the living image of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The Khalsa collectively, represented in the form of 5 Sikhs is the GURU physically. No individual Sikh is the Guru. Our actions should reflect Guru Jis. A son is the image of his father. The son aspires to follow his father in thought, word and deed. However, the son can never brag that he is his father? The son is still the son, the father is still the father.
Ram Raheem is not a religion. He is not a separate religion or anything. He says this himself. The whole stunt of pretending to prepare Amrit etc was a stunt to enrage Sikhs. His intent was to "distort" and "mock" the concepts and traditions of the Sikhs. This can never be tolerated and never has done. Look at Sikh history! Disrespect of Sikh institutions, traditions and people has never been accepted and never will!
QUOTE 8) There was some talk about someone putting a price on the head of the chief of this dera. This kind of talk is extremism and will propagate sikhi to the low depths that Muslims have and continue to take their religion to. We need to completely disassociate ourselves with people who make such statements. Also the Media has a field day when someone talks like this. Under no circumstances should our community be resorting to mass hysteria, death threats etc.
If faith and devotion is extremism then do you call cowardice and submission to humiliation faith? The Sikhs put a price on the head of Massa Rangar. Were they wrong to do this? Baba Deep Singh put a price on the head of the Mughals who attacked Darbar Sahib, is this wrong? Whoever has insulted and attempted to annihilate the Sikhs whether it is physically, mentally, or theologically has been dealt with. Please read the pavitar Bani and literature of Guru Gobind Singh Ji and you will understand the concept of Saint-Warrior and Just-War theory in the Sikh faith clearer. At the moment your views reflect that of a Dera mentality.
The media will vilify the Sikhs regardless. Burn the house of a Sikh and will he not retaliate? Kick a Sikh and will he not stand?
QUOTE 9 I think the liberal sikhs in the panel made some excellent points. I was pleasantly surprised to hear the wise words of our SikhrealizeSamaritansSikh actress regarding Sikheconomic and social empowerment. Thats the last time i think that bollywood actors are more beauty than brain!
There is only one Sikh and one Guru.
Bhai Gurdaas Ji states:
ਇਕ ਗੁਰੁ ਇਕੁ ਸਿਖੁ ਹੈ ਗੁਰੁ ਸਬਿਦ ਸਿਞਾਣੈ॥"
There is one Guru, and one Sikh who understands the Guru's Shabad."
Again Bhai Gurdas Ji states similarly:
ਇਕੁ ਗੁਰੂ ਇਕੁ ਸਿਖੁ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਜਾਣਿਆ॥"
The Gurmukh understands that there is one Guru and there is one Sikh (i.e. there are not different types or degrees of being a Sikh)."
There is no such thing as liberal and conservative in the Sikh thought. Read Gurbani and read Sikh history, no such label appears. In modern times, the minds of Sikhs have been enslaved by media, politicians and social policies. Modern Sikhs themselves find it humiliating to practice and be proud of being a true Sikh. This is similar to the Jews in the early years of Nazi Germany. The supreme authority on who is a Sikh and what is Sikhi lays with Guru Granth Sahib Ji fundamentally and represented through the Guru Khalsa Panth.
Gurbani states:
ਸੋ ਸਿਖੁ ਸਖਾ ਬੰਧਪੁ ਹੈ ਭਾਈ ਜਿ ਗੁਰ ਕੇ ਭਾਣੇ ਵਿਚਿ ਆਵੈ ॥ਆਪਣੈ ਭਾਣੈ ਜੋ ਚਲੈ ਭਾਈ ਵਿਛੁੜਿ ਚੋਟਾ ਖਾਵੈ ॥"
He alone is a Sikh, a friend, a relative and a sibling, who walks in the Way of the Guru's Will. One who walks according to his own will, O Siblings of Destiny, suffers separation from the Lord, and shall be punished."(Ang 601)
Rahitnama Bhai Desa Singh (oral Hukam of Guru Gobind Singh Ji):
ਰਹਿਤ ਪਿਆਰੀ ਮੁਝ ਕਉ, ਸਿਖ ਪਿਆਰਾ ਨਾਹਿ ॥ ਰਹਿਣੀ ਰਹੈ ਸੋਈ ਸਿਖ ਮੇਰਾ। ਓਹੁ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਮੈ ਉਸ ਕਾ ਚੇਰਾ। ਰਹਿਤ ਬਿਨਾਂ ਨਹਿ ਸਿਖ ਕਹਾਵੈ, ਰਿਹਤ ਬਿਨਾਂ ਦਰ ਚੋਟਾਂ ਖਾਵੈ। ਰਹਿਤ ਬਿਨ ਸੁਖ ਕਬਹੁੰ ਨ ਲਹੇ। ਤਾਂ ਤੇ ਰਹਿਤ ਸੁ ਦਿ੍ੜ ਕਰ ਰਹੈ। (ਰਿਹਤਨਾਮਾ ਭਾਈ ਦੇਸਾ ਿਸੰਘ ਜੀ)"
I love a Sikhs code of conduct (Rahit), not for merely by being known as a Sikh. That person who follows the discipline is known as my Sikh. He is my master and I his disciple. Without discipline you cannot call yourself a Sikh, and without discipline you will face suffering. Without discipline you will not get happiness. Thus, one should remain firm in the discipline."
One should be cautious of anti-Panthic and anti-Gurmat websites which are targeting the youth and wider Sangat through discreet Parchaar. Project Naad supports Snaatan view of Sikhi that is propagated and supported by UK Nangs and the RSS. In addition to this, the same questionable website has shown open support for the controversial UK Sikh Student Camp that has faced many issues such as promoting watered down version of Sikhi, serious allegations of misconduct with campers, over-friendliness of camp sevadars with campers, and controversial anti-panthic individuals funding the camp. Project Naads open support for Jhoot Sauda has exposed its true face.
Wednesday, 1 October 2008
90 Sikhs Arrested Protesting Sirsa Sauda Cult
Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar) workers protesting at Mansa
Mansa, Punjab (KP) – The already burgeoning list of cases against Sikhs in the Dera Sacha Sauda case has grown as the police recently arrested over ninety Sikhs who were peacefully protesting against the illegal activities of Gurmeet Ram Rahim and his Dera Sacha Sauda Cult. Although they received no complaints from the public, the arrests were made this past Saturday by Punjab Police merely on the grounds that the protestors had caused "a public inconvenience."
Early Saturday morning, a group of around two hundred protestors, who were being led by Gursevak Singh Jawaharke, Generel Secretary, Shiromani Akali Dal Amritsar, disrupted traffic in order to show that the people of Punjab were still demanding the arrest of Gurmeet Ram Rahim who has continued to cause trouble for the Sikhs while making a mockery of law and order. During the blockade, several travelers who were passing by joined the peaceful protest against Dera Sacha Sauda. Also prompting the protests by the Sikh community was a recent announcement by the cult in which they publicized the opening of another major branch in Punjab.
Sikh protestors held that peaceful protest is the basic right of all human beings, especially those living in "democratic" countries, and that there is nothing wrong in standing against the wrong and unjust. A recent public speech by Singh Sahib Giani Gurbhachan Singh also supported peaceful protests against Dera Sacha Sauda. Interestingly, the newly appointed Jathedar has declared that the case against Gurmeet Ram Rahim will be heard after the 300th Gurta-Gaddi celebrations.
While a majority of Panthic organizations have continued to follow Akal Takhat Sahib's directive to boycott Dera Sacha Sauda, the Shiromani Akali Dal (B) has come under major criticism. Recently the party has inclined towards taking a weak stand against the Sirsa based cult merely to win votes in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The Shiromani Akali Dal (A) has fired back announcing that Parkash and Sukhbir Badal's motives to let Gurmeet Ram Rahim off the hook will never be allowed to succeed.
According to recent statements by Giani Gurbhachan Singh, it was true that the Dera Sacha Sauda had approached Akal Takhat Sahib to offer an apology. But in what words the apology was offered was not disclosed by the Akal Takhat Sahib's appointed Jathedar. He alleged that no decisions will be taken against the Dera without consulting other Panthic organizations first.
Meanwhile, the Shiromani Akali Dal (A) has appealed to Sikhs worldwide to continue protesting the activities of Dera Sacha Sauda. According to a recent press statement, if the arrested Sikh protesters are not released and their charges aren’t dropped, the organization will launch a massive morcha to initiate similar protests all across Punjab once again.
Navtej Singh and Harchand Singh allege abuse in Police custody
Amritsar Sahib (KP) – During the court hearing held this past week in the Ajit Phoola execution case, the accused, Navtej Singh and Harchand Singh, alleged that they are being deprived of basic necessities in jail. Both Navtej Singh and Harchand Singh, who were previously barred in Jail, are responsible for bringing the pseudo-Nihang Ajit Phoola to justice after they were enticed by police officials.The hearing was held in the court of Sh. Harsh Mehta (Chief Judicial Magistrate) in Sri Amritsar. Along with Navtej Singh and Harchand Singh, six others were presented in the court of the honorable judge to submit their statements. However, when asked to record their statements, both Navtej Singh and Harchand Singh refused to testify. They however put to light the horrifying tales of the treatment they have faced at the hands of police officers after Phoola's slaying.
Navtej Singh alleged that he is forced to spend time in a dark and isolated area of the jail. He is forced to stay there without any supply of water or other necessities. In addition, he is often interrogated and physically and mentally abused by police officers. He is forced to remain thirsty and hungry for long periods of time which has worsened his health. According to Navtej Singh, just before presenting them in the court, he and his associate Harchand Singh were abused. Navtej Singh labeled his and Harchand Singh’s treatment by the police as being no different from the way animals would be treated by an insane person.
Judge Sh. Harsh Mehta held that he would order an inquiry into the matter. He further presented this case to Sessions Judge Sh. S.P. Bangar. Furthermore, the next court hearing was announced to take place on October 9 in which these matters will be discussed at a greater depth.
The type of treatment Navtej Singh and Harchand singh are facing from the Police certainly needs an inquiry at a high level. According to reports by multiple human rights organizations, police often use physical controls during "interrogation sessions." During the 80’s and early 90’s, many harsh techniques were used by the police, which in turn also resulted in the deaths of many.
Sikh organizations based in Punjab should keep a close eye on all developments in this case. Harchand Singh and Navtej Singh's case could solve many complexities as it puts a question to the role of several senior police officers in the murders of Sikh freedom fighters.
Wednesday, 24 September 2008
Avtar Bhanearawala
Avtar Bhanearawala
Background
Avtar Bhanearawala first started his cult back in 1980 in village Dhamana in Roopnagar. During the Sikh movement he operated quietly just like every other human “guru”. After the decline of the movement he forcibly took over 19 acres of land in the village and expanded his dera. He started attracting many followers from the local area and gaining some popularity. He would not have gained much popularity had it not been for greedy leaders. According to a report: “A controversial person Piara Sio Bhanearawala became famous when Minister Boota Sinh went to beg for votes. He was the first leader to visit the dera. Boota Sinh wanted to secure his dalit votes since majority of the followers of Bhanearawala were dalits.” (Desh Sewak, 7 October 2001)
Besides his numerous “female companions”, he has three legal wives Kusam Devi, Rupinder Kaur and Surjeet Kaur. He has three sons. The youngest keep matted hair like a sanyasi and the eldest shows off a Hindu lifestyle while the middle son has adopted a Sikh form. This is done to attract followers from Sikhi and Hinduism. He has property worth billions of rupees some of which is distributed among his three wives based on the condition that the property could not be sold but only passed on to the heirs.
Challenges to Sikhi
His direct opposition against Sikhi came forward in a form of his “holy book” called “Bhavsagar Samundar Amar Bani” which was filled with false and nonsensical stories and insulting remarks about Sikh Guru and Sikh practices. It was put together by 21 government sponsored people including policemen and teachers. Five of 21 people were women. Bhanearawala has resorted to insult Sikhi practices on daily basis. He encouraged his followers to desecrate saroops of Guru Granth Sahib. His followers acting on his words burnt hundreds of saroops in many cities of Punjab. Report published in Desh Sewak newspaper exposed his true face. According to his followers Jaswinder Singh, Bindar Singh and Ashok Kumar:
Piara Singh Bhanearawala was enraged at Sikhs for burning his granth. To seek revenge he appealed to us to burn Guru Granth Sahib. When we refused, he forced us to do it at gunpoint and threatened to kill us. We stole a saroop from Ratangarh and burnt it at a dera in Rasoolpur. (Desh Sewak, 14 October 2001)
Burning of saroops continued for many months in Punjab. Bhanearawala was not arrested by the police for inciting hatred and disrespecting another religion. Instead, he was provided with security forces by the government.
He has also established a place in his local dera which he says is more powerful and holier than Darbar Sahib. According to a report published by Vijay Chandan: The notorious Bhanearawala has built a place in his dera where his followers come to disperse the remains of their dead. There exists a pond in which the remains are thrown. It is believed by the followers that person whose remains are put in the pond goes straight to heaven. Bhanearawala charges Rs. 1000 to use the pond. (Desh Sewak, 28 October 2001)
He claims that his filthy granth has no derogatory comments about the Sikh faith which is far from the actual truth. Here are some stories from his granth.
An Amritdhari used to go to Gurdwara everyday. He was in a dire situation and prayed everyday but no avail. At last, Bhanearawala blessed him with his vision and brought him to Bhaneara. (Page 27)
Bhanearawala blessed Amritdharis with his visions, impressed them with his spiritual powers and destroyed their false ego. (Page 116)
One time an Amritdhari came to the dera and questioned Baba Ji (Bhanearawala) as to why Guru Granth Sahib was not kept there. Baba Ji replied, “It is of no importance.” Amritdhari became angry and left the dera. After some time his legs were broken in an accident. God blessed him with a vision in form of Baba Ji and told him to serve at the dera. His legs were healed by Baba Ji. He used to work at Mehta Gurdwara then why didn’t God bless him with a vision in form of Amritdhari? (Page 701)
An Amritdhari named Yugraj Singh had been yearning for God’s vision. Baba Ji blessed him with a vision. (Page 909)
Karamjit Singh used to work as a granthi. Due to some illeness he lost his eyesight and his wife became paralyzed on one side of the body. They had Akhand Paath at Darbar Sahib and did immense seva at Gurdwaras but nothing turned to their benefit. Baba Ji Bhanearawala cured their illness. Karamjit had prepared to go to Anandpur Sahib at 300th centennial and wanted to take his wife along with him but she refused and came to Baba Ji instead. Baba Ji told her that those who go to Anandpur Sahib never get salvation and remain in the cycle of life and death. If there was a benefit of going to the Gurdwara they would’ve been cured there. (Page 995)
On the martyrdom day of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, Manjit Kaur was blessed with a vision of Bhanearawala. She saw Guru Arjan Dev Ji sitting on a hot iron plate and the entire body was full of blisters. Then the image of Guru Arjan Dev Ji took the form of Baba Piara Singh and told Manjeet to do seva at dera Bhaneara. Then the form turned back to Guru Arjav Dev Ji and said to Manjeet, “Look what the humanity have done to me. They have not spared me of their injustice.” (Page 1107)
One time a lady was going to Gurdwara. Guru Arjan Dev Ji revealed Himself to her and said, “Why are you going to Gurdwara? There is nothing there. Go to dera Bhaneara instead. True Satguru resides there. You shall reach liberation there.” (Page 1240)
One person told Baba Ji Bhaneara to summon before Akal Takhat but Baba Ji refused and said, “I don’t accept any Akal Takhat. God has told me that falsehood shall perish.” (Page 1240)
These are some of the contained in Bhavsagar granth. Bhanearawala was greatly opposed by the Sikhs which resulted in decline in his followers. Few of his followers were killed in jail and Bhanearawala was attacked by a knife but luckily he survived.
Altering Gurbani
Besides preaching against Sikhi and insulting Sikh Gurus at his deras, Gurbani is misused to mislead the people into thinking that he provides correct interpretations. Some examples are below:
ਦੀਨ ਗੁਆਇਆ ਦੁਨੀ ਸਿਉਂ ਦੁਨੀ ਨਾ ਚਲੀ ਸਾਥ, ਰੱਬ ਨੂੰ ਭੁੱਲ ਕੇ ਬੈਠ ਗਿਆਂ ਕਿਸੇ ਨਾ ਦਿੱਤਾ ਸਾਥ । (Page 134)
ਕਰਨੀ ਆਪੋ ਆਪਣੀ ਲੇਖੇ ਹੋਏ ਹਿਸਾਬ, ਰੱਬ ਨੇ ਲੇਖਾ ਮੰਗਣਾ ਦੇਣਾ ਪਵੇਗਾ ਜਵਾਬ । (Page 144)
ਹੁਕਮੈ ਲੈ ਅੰਦਰ ਸਭ ਕੋ ਬਾਹਰ ਹੁਕਮ ਨਾ ਕੋਇ, ਜਿਥੇ ਰੱਖੇ ਪਰਮੇਸਰ ਸਵਾਮੀ ਉੱਥੇ ਰੱਬ ਕਰੇ ਵਾਸ । (Page 1325)
Sikhs need to unite together and eliminate such nefarious groups for the sake of Sikhi’s survival. While Sikhs continue to waste time in seeking justice from the government he continues to spew hatred towards Sikhi while enjoying the security of the government.
Sikh Child Suspended Indefinitely by Montreal School Without Investigation
Independent Eye-Witnesses to Incident Report Sikh Never Touched kirpan; Several Media Outlets Misreporting Incident
Montreal, Quebec, Canada: A thirteen-year-old Sikh boy was suspended from school on September 11th after being accused of threatening another student outside school with his kirpan (a short steel or iron blade that is carried as one of five articles of faith). The school in Le Salle suspended the Sikh student without properly investigating the matter, as it has become apparent that multiple independent eye-witnesses to the incident confirm that the Sikh boy never touched his kirpan. UNITED SIKHS is assisting the family by working with local Montreal Sikh community activists and eminent human-rights lawyer Julius Grey to have the Sikh boy's suspension lifted and also to thwart incorrect media reports which have misreported the incident and are using it to reignite the debate about the kirpan in Montreal schools.
The incident occurred when a few students, including the Sikh boy, left school for lunch. Two boys followed the students and began taunting and bullying the Sikh boy, as they have on numerous occasions in the past. When the Sikh boy was adjusting his loose pants, the bullies notice the boy's kirpan, which was securely wrapped in a long cloth and had multiple rubber-bands around it. Upon returning to school, the Sikh boy and another student reported the bullying incident to their teacher, who responded that she would investigate the matter, but did not have time today. Shortly thereafter, police arrived at the school and began questioning the Sikh boy. It is believed that the bullies reported that the Sikh boy threatened them with his kirpan to their mother, who in turn called the police. The Sikh boy was suspended by the school for an indefinite period of time, and police have yet to file any charges.
Assuming the allegations against the Sikh boy were true, the Montreal Gazette, among other news agencies, reported that the incident "raises questions about [the] court ruling," referring to the Multani decision in which the Supreme Court of Canada upheld the right of Sikh children to wear the kirpan to school in 2006.
Commenting on the school commission's hasty decision to suspend the boy without investigating the incident, Julius Grey, the lawyer representing the family stated, "It appears that there is no substance whatsoever to these claims, and I am shocked at the cavalier way the [Sikh] boy has been treated when in fact independent witnesses confirm these allegations are false. This is an attempt to undo the kirpan case [Multani] without any legitimate reason."
Initially concerned that the allegations were true, UNITED SIKHS contacted the family who were already receiving assistance from local Sikh community activists involved with the Multani case in 2006, including Chattar Singh, Kiranpal Singh, and Hardev Singh. After speaking with those involved and determining that it was necessary to take immediate action, we contacted Julius Grey, who held conference with the family, representatives from the local Sikh community, and UNITED SIKHS on Friday and immediately issued a letter to the school demanding that the Sikh boy be allowed to return to school.
The school, citing formal notice from Sikh student's attorney, cancelled a meeting with the Sikh student's parents and stated that they will need to meet internally about the matter. "What is particularly troublesome about the school's reaction to the bullying incident is that school officials have allowed their prejudices against the kirpan to override their duty to properly investigate this serious matter. The same prejudices are now hindering them from allowing the Sikh student back in school after independent witnesses to the incident have come forward showing that the allegations are false," remarked Jaspreet Singh, Staff Attorney for UNITED SIKHS.
Commenting on the incident, Manjit Singh, Director of Chaplaincy Services, McGill University and one of the advisors to the family stated, "The reason why our community is being treated in such an inconsiderate manner by the school is because the education system in Quebec previously only focused on the Judeo-Christian tradition with the result that those people in decision making roles do not have an understanding of Sikhism. That is our challenge."
The father of the accused, Kamaljeet Singh, expressed distress at his son's suspension stating, "My son's education is suffering because of these false allegations. Wearing the kirpan is taken very seriously and it is preposterous that my son would threaten anyone with this most important article of faith. My son keeps asking me, what did I do to deserve this? I don't have an answer."
http://www.unitedsikhs.org/PressReleases/P...-09-2008-00.htm
Montreal, Quebec, Canada: A thirteen-year-old Sikh boy was suspended from school on September 11th after being accused of threatening another student outside school with his kirpan (a short steel or iron blade that is carried as one of five articles of faith). The school in Le Salle suspended the Sikh student without properly investigating the matter, as it has become apparent that multiple independent eye-witnesses to the incident confirm that the Sikh boy never touched his kirpan. UNITED SIKHS is assisting the family by working with local Montreal Sikh community activists and eminent human-rights lawyer Julius Grey to have the Sikh boy's suspension lifted and also to thwart incorrect media reports which have misreported the incident and are using it to reignite the debate about the kirpan in Montreal schools.
The incident occurred when a few students, including the Sikh boy, left school for lunch. Two boys followed the students and began taunting and bullying the Sikh boy, as they have on numerous occasions in the past. When the Sikh boy was adjusting his loose pants, the bullies notice the boy's kirpan, which was securely wrapped in a long cloth and had multiple rubber-bands around it. Upon returning to school, the Sikh boy and another student reported the bullying incident to their teacher, who responded that she would investigate the matter, but did not have time today. Shortly thereafter, police arrived at the school and began questioning the Sikh boy. It is believed that the bullies reported that the Sikh boy threatened them with his kirpan to their mother, who in turn called the police. The Sikh boy was suspended by the school for an indefinite period of time, and police have yet to file any charges.
Assuming the allegations against the Sikh boy were true, the Montreal Gazette, among other news agencies, reported that the incident "raises questions about [the] court ruling," referring to the Multani decision in which the Supreme Court of Canada upheld the right of Sikh children to wear the kirpan to school in 2006.
Commenting on the school commission's hasty decision to suspend the boy without investigating the incident, Julius Grey, the lawyer representing the family stated, "It appears that there is no substance whatsoever to these claims, and I am shocked at the cavalier way the [Sikh] boy has been treated when in fact independent witnesses confirm these allegations are false. This is an attempt to undo the kirpan case [Multani] without any legitimate reason."
Initially concerned that the allegations were true, UNITED SIKHS contacted the family who were already receiving assistance from local Sikh community activists involved with the Multani case in 2006, including Chattar Singh, Kiranpal Singh, and Hardev Singh. After speaking with those involved and determining that it was necessary to take immediate action, we contacted Julius Grey, who held conference with the family, representatives from the local Sikh community, and UNITED SIKHS on Friday and immediately issued a letter to the school demanding that the Sikh boy be allowed to return to school.
The school, citing formal notice from Sikh student's attorney, cancelled a meeting with the Sikh student's parents and stated that they will need to meet internally about the matter. "What is particularly troublesome about the school's reaction to the bullying incident is that school officials have allowed their prejudices against the kirpan to override their duty to properly investigate this serious matter. The same prejudices are now hindering them from allowing the Sikh student back in school after independent witnesses to the incident have come forward showing that the allegations are false," remarked Jaspreet Singh, Staff Attorney for UNITED SIKHS.
Commenting on the incident, Manjit Singh, Director of Chaplaincy Services, McGill University and one of the advisors to the family stated, "The reason why our community is being treated in such an inconsiderate manner by the school is because the education system in Quebec previously only focused on the Judeo-Christian tradition with the result that those people in decision making roles do not have an understanding of Sikhism. That is our challenge."
The father of the accused, Kamaljeet Singh, expressed distress at his son's suspension stating, "My son's education is suffering because of these false allegations. Wearing the kirpan is taken very seriously and it is preposterous that my son would threaten anyone with this most important article of faith. My son keeps asking me, what did I do to deserve this? I don't have an answer."
http://www.unitedsikhs.org/PressReleases/P...-09-2008-00.htm
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