THE ASIAN INDEPENDENT UK
The Indian Workers Association (Great Britain) has expressed deep shock and outrage after a deadly terrorist attack on a Manchester synagogue, which left three people dead — including the alleged attacker — and several others seriously injured.
The incident took place on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish faith, when hundreds of worshippers had gathered for prayer and reflection at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation synagogue in Crumpsall, Manchester.
According to police reports, a 35-year-old man, Jihad al-Shamie, drove a vehicle into pedestrians before launching a knife attack on those inside and outside the synagogue. Armed police responded quickly and shot the attacker dead. It has since been confirmed that one of the victims was accidentally killed by police gunfire amid the chaos.
Two worshippers — Adrian Daulby (53) and Melvin Cravitz (66) — were tragically killed. Three others remain in hospital with serious injuries caused by stabbing, gunfire, and the car ramming. Police have made three arrests in connection with the incident, and counter-terrorism officers are investigating it as a hate-motivated attack.
“An attack on one faith is an attack on all humanity”
Sital Singh Gill, General Secretary of the Indian Workers Association (Great Britain), said the organisation and its members were “deeply shocked and heartbroken” by the tragedy.
“We strongly condemn this horrific act of violence carried out against innocent worshippers on their most sacred day,” said Mr Gill. “To attack people during Yom Kippur — a day of peace, reflection, and forgiveness — is an act of pure hatred that all right-minded people must condemn.”
Mr Gill said the Indian Workers Association stands in full solidarity with the Jewish community across Britain and the world.
“No one should be targeted or live in fear because of their religion or background,” he continued. “We share in the pain of our Jewish brothers and sisters and send our heartfelt condolences to the families of all those who have lost their loved ones.”
“The IWA (G.B.) believes that an attack on one faith is an attack on all humanity. We call upon all communities — Sikh, Hindu, Muslim, Christian, and Jewish — to unite and reject hatred in every form. Our unity is our strength.”
The association urged the UK Government and police authorities to ensure better protection for all places of worship and to tackle the rise of racism, antisemitism, and extremism through education and community solidarity.
The Manchester attack has shocked communities across Britain, serving as a grim reminder that hate and violence have no place in a peaceful, multicultural society.
