Television actor-comedian Kapil Sharma's café in Canada was targeted earlier this week in an attack now being laid claim to by Harjit Singh Laddi, a notorious member of the banned terrorist group Babbar Khalsa International (BKI).
On India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) most-wanted list, Laddi explained that the attack was in reprisal for a segment on Sharma's show that was said to have ridiculed Nihang Sikhs.
In one of the videos uploaded on social media, Laddi claimed that he and Toofan Singh, also believed to be associated with BKI, opened fire at Kap's Café in Surrey, British Columbia, on Wednesday evening.
A character was dressed in the Nihang Sikh clothing and some satirical comments were made on their behavior. These were deemed offensive and offended the religious sentiments of the members. No religion or spiritual identity can be ridiculed under the cover of humor," Laddi explained the act of violence.
He asserted that constant attempts were made to reach Sharma's team. "Why wasn't Kapil Sharma apologising publicly anytime soon?" he asked.
The Nihang Sikhs are a highly respected martial sect within Sikhism, known for their culturally unique blue clothing, arms, and adherence to traditional Sikh martial customs. The comments placed on Sharma's program, as per Laddi, were believed to be most disrespectful.
Details of the Firing Incident
The Surrey Police Service (SPS) confirmed officers responded to the café at approximately 1:50 am on Thursday, July 10, after receiving reports of shots having been fired at the location, which had recently opened up on July 4.
"Upon the arrival of police, it was immediately established that shots had been discharged into the business, which is sustaining damage to the property, with staff still inside," said the SPS. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries.
Café's Stand: 'We Stand Firm Against Violence'
In a move that shows they have not lost their moral compass, Kap's Café responded to the incident with a heartfelt statement via Instagram on Friday.
"We opened Kap's Café with dreams of spreading warmth, community, and joy through great coffee and good chat. To have violence cross into that vision is heartbreaking. We are trying to come to terms with this shock but we are not giving up," read the café's statement.
They also thanked the community for their support: "Your nice words, prayers, and memories shared via DM mean more than you know. This café is here because of your belief in what we're creating together. Let's stand together against violence and let Kap's Café continue to be a place of warmth and community."
The post finished with: "Thank you and see you soon under better skies."
To date, Kapil Sharma has not made a public statement about the incident.
