SGPC Expresses Shock and Condemns Fatal Shooting of Sikhs in Italy
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has expressed profound shock and strongly condemned the killing of two Sikh men in Italy, describing the incident as deeply disturbing and alarming. SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami on Sunday appealed to the Government of India to take up the matter with Italian authorities to ensure swift justice.
Details of the Tragic Incident in Covo, Bergamo
According to media reports, two Indian nationals—Rajinder Singh, 48, a resident of Covo, and Gurmeet Singh of Agnadello—were shot dead late on Friday night outside Gurdwara Mata Sahib Kaur Ji in Covo. This location is situated in the industrial area of Bergamo within the Lombardy region. Another individual was injured during the attack, adding to the gravity of the situation.
Italian investigators, citing initial reports, suspect that the assailant—believed to be of Indian origin—approached the victims and opened fire before fleeing the scene. Authorities have indicated that the attack was not a spontaneous altercation but rather a "coldly planned execution." Reports suggest approximately ten shots were fired, resulting in the immediate deaths of the victims.
SGPC President's Appeal and Community Reaction
Harjinder Singh Dhami stated that this incident has sent shockwaves across Sikh communities worldwide. He emphasized that gurdwaras have always stood as symbols of peace, service, and universal brotherhood, making any act of violence at such sacred places extremely serious and concerning.
Dhami made a dual appeal:
- He urged the Indian government to engage with Italian authorities to ensure justice is served.
- He called on the Italian government to take immediate and stringent action against those responsible for the killings.
In his statement, Dhami highlighted that Sikhs have consistently followed the path shown by the Gurus, promoting harmony and brotherhood globally. Through gurdwaras, they have contributed significantly to societal welfare, and incidents of violence at these places undermine these values. He also expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of Rajinder Singh and Gurmeet Singh.
Investigation and Ongoing Efforts by Italian Authorities
Italian authorities have launched a detailed investigation into the shooting. Key steps in the probe include:
- Examining CCTV footage from the area to identify the assailant and sequence of events.
- Collecting forensic evidence at the crime scene to gather crucial details.
- Questioning witnesses to piece together the circumstances leading to the attack.
The goal is to swiftly identify and apprehend the culprits, ensuring that justice is delivered for the victims and their families. This incident has raised concerns about safety and communal harmony within the Indian diaspora in Italy, prompting calls for enhanced security measures at religious sites.
