Editor’s Note: A meeting has been called at Gurdwara Nanaksar (Cherry Rd) tomorrow to discuss this matter further with local authorities.

FRESNO, California, USA—Sikh24 has learned that an elderly Sikh man from Fresno, CA became the target of a hate crime outside Gurdwara Nanaksar, Cherry Road. Bhai Piara Singh is a volunteer at the Gurdwara and performs daily chores there.

The incident took place just outside the premises of Gurdwara Nanaksar when Piara Singh was walking towards his house after performing some morning duties.

The attack is being investigated as a hate crime. As per received reports, Piara Singh was beaten with a steel rod. He is currently admitted in the hospital undergoing treatment for severe head injuries, and his condition is said to be critical. His rib was also fractured and a lung collapsed during the attack.

We have learned that the suspect has already been arrested by the Fresno police.

Fresno is located in the heart of the Central Valley of California and has a sizable Sikh/Punjabi population. Although such vicious attacks are rare, they have continued to disturb the community living there. Not too long ago, a ‘parcharik’, or preacher, was attacked at Fresno’s International Airport next to the TSA office.

Post 9/11, Sikhs in the Central Valley have been victimized by hate crimes – even Sikh children are bullied at school about their appearance and values.

We are requesting Sikhs to stay alert and report any suspicious activity by dialing 911.