South Asian anti-racism groups demand justice after racial attack on British Sikh woman

Anti-racism organisations representing Britain’s South Asian communities have demanded justice following the racially aggravated rape of a British Sikh woman in Oldbury, an incident described in Parliament as “absolutely appalling.” Police confirmed that a man in his 30s has been arrested on suspicion of the assault, with investigations ongoing.

The South Asia Solidarity Group, supported by more than 40 community organisations across religious lines, issued a statement condemning the September 9 attack, during which the victim reported that racist slurs were directed at her. Local reports suggest two white male attackers told her, “You don’t belong in this country, get out.”

British Sikh MP Gurinder Singh Josan raised the attack in the House of Commons, urging Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood to address growing concerns about racism and community safety. Mahmood responded, calling the assault “absolutely appalling” and vowing that the government would not tolerate incitement to racial hatred or violence.

The solidarity group linked the attack to what it called the government’s “increasingly oppressive immigration policies,” arguing that such measures fuel hostility on the streets. “We demand justice for the survivor of the Oldbury attack. Fascists off our streets,” the statement read.

The National Indian Students and Alumni Union (NISAU) UK also voiced solidarity, highlighting the anxiety such crimes cause within the diaspora, particularly international students. “This is an assault not only on one individual but on every principle of dignity, humanity, and belonging that underpins our society,” it said.

The attack came days after a large anti-immigration rally in London, organised by far-right activist Tommy Robinson and addressed by tech billionaire Elon Musk, which descended into violent clashes. Dozens of police officers were injured and 24 suspects arrested.

Home Secretary Mahmood condemned the violence, criticising Musk for encouraging citizens to “fight against Britain’s ancient democracy.” London Mayor Sadiq Khan, himself of Pakistani heritage, urged communities to unite against the far right. “We must stand together for our values of equality, inclusion, and mutual respect,” he said.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer also condemned the violence, asserting that the government will not allow intimidation based on people’s “background or the colour of their skin.”