The Sikh Council contributed towards the review of crematoria provision and facilities highlighting some of the issues.
8 th March 2016: the Sikh Council UK was asked to provide evidence on genome editing by Nuffield bioethics. This was done on behalf of the Council by the Sikh Missionary Society a member organisation.
17th March 2016: provided information to Canadian Sikhs about the recently achieved exemption for Sikhs from wearing hard hats in workplaces.
22nd March 2016 Brussels Terrorist attack
Sikh Council UK is shocked by and condemns the killing of innocent people in Brussels during the terrorist attack on 22nd March 2016 at Brussels Airport and the Maelbeek Metro subway station.
There are reported to have been at least three explosions with at least 34 people killed including children and over 170 injured some with severe injuries.
Secretary General of Sikh Council UK, Gurmel Singh said, “These bombings are brutal acts of violence that have no place in society and are to be condemned. On behalf of Sikhs in the UK and across Europe, I send our heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those who have been taken away by this appalling tragic event. Our prayers are with all the victims, their families, and the people of Belgium and we pray for a speedy and full recovery of those injured.”
He added, “We ask all nations worldwide to stand in solidarity and to work together to take strong actions to ensure justice is served and those responsible for the violence are held to account.”
Chair of the European & International Affairs Committee of Sikh Council UK, Paramjit Kaur Matharu said, “Very often following these atrocities we have seen an increase in hate crimes including against Sikhs and their places of worship. We would urge all Sikhs to be vigilant and to report any such attacks whilst proudly practicing their faith and being supportive and participating fully in their wider community.
