Hindus for Human Rights Statement on the Assault of Harpal Singh

Hindus for Human Rights stands in solidarity with the Sikh community following the brutal assault of Harpal Singh, an elderly Sikh man attacked near his Gurdwara in Los Angeles. We are deeply concerned by the decision not to investigate this incident as a potential hate crime at this stage.

Given the long history of bias-motivated violence targeting Sikhs in the United States, law enforcement must treat bias as a possible motive from the outset. Ruling it out before Mr. Singh can provide a statement risks eroding community trust and sends a dangerous message to vulnerable communities.

Even as we seek accountability, we also affirm the need for compassion and understanding—recognizing that safety and justice require not only legal action, but deeper efforts to confront ignorance, build interfaith understanding, and strengthen bonds between neighbors.

We call on the LAPD and the Los Angeles County District Attorney to re-examine this case with transparency and urgency, ensuring that all potential motives—including hate—are fully investigated. Justice requires nothing less.