Attempted Murder Conviction of Indian-Origin Men in New Zealand: Harnek Singh, Sikh Radio Jockey, Attacked by Khalistani Supporters

Three men of Indian origin in New Zealand have been found guilty of attempting to murder a Sikh radio jockey who spoke out against the Khalistani ideology. The victim, Harnek Singh, was attacked on December 23, 2020, in Auckland’s Wattle Downs area and sustained more than 40 stab wounds. He required extensive medical treatment, including over 350 stitches and multiple surgeries.

After a lengthy trial, the first accused, Sukhpreet Singh, aged 44, was sentenced to six months of home detention. The second accused, 27-year-old Sarvjeet Sidhu, who attacked Harnek with a knife, received a prison term of nine-and-a-half years. The third accused, a 48-year-old Auckland resident, received one of the harshest sentences for attempted murder in New Zealand – 13-and-a-half years in prison.

During the trial, the judge emphasized the need to protect the community and send a strong deterrent message. The court noted that although the third accused was not physically present during the attack, he held a deep resentment towards Harnek due to his political views and what the court referred to as a “liberal interpretation of Sikhism.” The judge stated that the third accused had planned the attack and manipulated others to carry it out.

The judge described the motivation behind the attack as religious fanaticism, stating that such violence is committed in the belief that it serves a greater purpose. Two men, Jagraj Singh and Gurbinder Singh, were acquitted in the case due to insufficient evidence, while two others, Jobanpreet Singh and Hardeep Singh, are still awaiting sentencing.

This shocking incident highlights the importance of promoting tolerance and understanding within communities. The court’s decision to hand down significant sentences reflects the gravity of the crime and sends a strong message against acts of violence driven by religious extremism.

Published on December 2, 2023, this case serves as a reminder of the need to combat radical ideologies and ensure the safety and well-being of individuals who dare to express their opinions and beliefs.