Conviction of Khalistani Extremists in New Zealand Radio Host’s Attempted Murder Case

New Delhi: Three Khalistani extremists have faced sentencing for the attempted murder of Auckland-based radio host Harnek Singh, known for opposing Khalistani ideology. The assailants, Sarvjeet Sidhu (27) and Sukhpreet Singh (44), alongside a 48-year-old mastermind, orchestrated an ambush on Singh in December 2020, inflicting over 40 stab wounds.

Judge Mark Woolford emphasized community protection against religious fanaticism during sentencing, highlighting the need for deterrence against such violence. Singh, also known as Nekki, survived the attack by locking himself in his vehicle and alerting neighbours, preventing potential fatal bleeding.

Singh expressed that his views on Sikhism leaned liberal, contrasting the fundamentalist beliefs of his assailants. Despite the ongoing fear his family faces, he pledged to persist in voicing his opinions.

The ringleader received a 13.5-year sentence, the maximum minus a six-month credit for bail time. Sidhu was imprisoned for 9.5 years, and Singh received six months of home detention. Notably, two men were acquitted due to insufficient evidence, while two others await sentencing.

Singh’s ordeal underscores the global rise of Khalistani movements and the dangers posed by extremist ideologies. The sentencing marks a stance against violence stemming from radical beliefs, ensuring justice prevails regardless of religious motivations.