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The Sikh Federation UK has called on the British Government to launch a statutory public inquiry into the events surrounding the murder of 18-year-old student Henry Nowak, arguing that serious questions remain about the actions of authorities before and after the tragic incident.
Henry Nowak was killed in Southampton in December 2025 by Vickrum Digwa, who was recently sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 21 years. While the conviction has brought some measure of justice, community leaders believe a wider investigation is needed to determine whether the tragedy could have been prevented.
The Sikh Federation has written to senior government officials, including Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, Justice Secretary David Lammy, and Attorney General Richard Hermer. In its letter, the organization highlighted what it described as "catastrophic multi-agency failures" and urged ministers to establish an independent public inquiry.
According to the Federation, local intelligence suggested that Digwa was already known to law enforcement before the attack. The group is seeking answers about whether available information was properly assessed and whether opportunities to reduce potential risks were missed.
Another major concern raised by the organization relates to the description of the weapon used in the attack. During court proceedings, prosecutors referred to the knife as a kirpan, a ceremonial blade carried by some Sikhs as part of their religious faith. However, Sikh Federation representatives argue that the weapon did not fit the traditional or legal definition of a kirpan and that the characterization contributed to public misunderstanding.
Community leaders say the controversy surrounding the case has had wider consequences, with reports of increased hostility and attacks targeting members of the Sikh community following Digwa's sentencing. Thousands of Sikhs recently took part in a march through London, where concerns about the case and its impact on community relations were widely discussed.
Meanwhile, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) continues its investigation into Hampshire Police's handling of the incident. The National Police Chiefs' Council has also announced a review of anti-racism guidance that has come under scrutiny in the aftermath of the case.
The Home Office, Ministry of Justice, and Attorney General's Office have not yet publicly responded to the Sikh Federation's request for a statutory inquiry. As calls for greater transparency continue, campaigners argue that a full public investigation is necessary to establish accountability, restore public confidence, and ensure lessons are learned from the circumstances surrounding Henry Nowak's death.
