HALIFAX, Canada—The Sikh community of Halifax has expressed its outrage over the terror attack on the Canadian parliament and the National War Memorial in Ottawa on Wednesday.
In a message to Prime Minister Stephen Harper, the Maritime Sikh Society, said, “We, the members of Maritime Sikh Society, Halifax Canada, are deeply shaken by the terrorist attack on the Parliament building in Ottawa on October 22, 2014. We strongly condemn this cowardly and barbaric act. We firmly believe that terrorism has no place in a democratic and peaceful society of Canada.’’
Condoling the shooting death of 24-year-old Cpl. Nathan Cirillo who was at guard at the National War Memorial, the message said, “Our profound sympathies and prayers are with the family of Cpl. Nathan Cirillo who lost his life while on duty. We also salute Sgt. at Arms Kevin Vicker for facing and gunning down the terrorist at the great risk to his life.’’
The World Sikh Organization of Canada also expressed shock over the terrorist attacks in Ottawa.
In a statement, WSO President Dr. Amritpal Singh Shergill said, “We stand in solidarity with our fellow Canadians in condemning these atrocious attacks. As we commend the quick and courageous action of Sgt. at Arms Kevin Vickers in preventing any further loss of life, we also send our prayers and condolences to the family of Cpl. Nathan Cirillo who lost his life while serving his country.
“The response of Canadians of all backgrounds to these attacks has shown that we will not be intimidated or daunted but will instead respond with courage and unity. We will not let this attack divide us. Today, as Sikhs around the world commemorate Bandi Chhor Divas, let us reflect on what part we must play so that that freedom and justice can prevail.”
Interestingly, the WSO had honoured Parliament Sergeant at Arms Kevin Vickers, who shot dead the lone attacker Michael Zehaf Bibeau in parliament, in 2011 for upholding the right of Sikhs to wear kirpans in the Canadian Parliament.
