Reform UK faces potential losses of support among Sikh voters following controversy surrounding the party’s statements on the kirpan, a ceremonial Sikh weapon permitted by UK law. The issue has intensified divisions within the party and sparked concern among Sikh community leaders about the future of their political allegiance.

The dispute arose in the wake of the murder of Henry Nowak by Vic Krum Digwa, a British Sikh. Digwa used a Persian blade associated with the Nihang Sikh warrior tradition rather than a kirpan. Despite this distinction, Reform UK’s home affairs spokesperson, Zia Yusuf, declared on social media on May 29 that the party would seek to repeal the legal exemption allowing Sikhs to carry the kirpan. Shortly after, Nigel Farage, a prominent figure associated with Reform UK, urged the public to respond with “pure, cold rage” to Nowak’s killing.

These comments prompted strong backlash from Sikh organizations. Dabinderjit Singh, chief executive for political engagement at the Sikh Federation, criticized Yusuf’s remarks as lacking logical basis and condemned Farage’s statements as “unforgivable.” Singh highlighted that such rhetoric risks fueling attacks on the broader Sikh community, which has experienced physical assaults in the UK and abroad. He suggested Farage’s comments exacerbated tensions surrounding a law-abiding minority.

Within Reform UK, there are reportedly around 100 Sikh activists, some of whom feel blindsided by the party’s stance. Following warnings from Sikh Reform activists, the party’s deputy leader, Richard Tice, held meetings with Sikh leaders attempting to address concerns. Tice himself has made visible efforts to engage with the Sikh community, including attending a gurdwara while wearing traditional attire.

Support for Reform UK among Sikhs and other ethnic minorities has been characterized by some insiders as an organic response to broader social and political anxieties. Navtaij Sangha, a British Sikh member of Reform and management consultant, attributed growing support to fears over cultural identity and immigration. Brexit sentiments have also played a role, with commentators noting significant leave votes in Punjabi Sikh communities, particularly among self-employed individuals who felt affected by European migration.

However, Sikh leaders caution that the party’s apparent move to ban the kirpan could provoke a significant shift away from Reform UK. Singh said such a policy would likely trigger an exodus of Sikh votes to Labour, which currently holds the majority of support within the Sikh electorate and all 11 Sikh parliamentary seats. Labour is positioned to benefit in key swing constituencies where Reform UK contests for second place.

While some within the Sikh community, including Sangha, support open dialogue on kirpan regulations, they acknowledge that Yusuf’s dismissal of religious nuance has caused upset. Singh warned that incidents like these could have lasting, generational impacts, deepening political disengagement.

Reform UK was contacted for comment but has yet to provide a detailed response. The controversy underscores ongoing debates about minority rights, community relations, and the challenges populist parties face in maintaining diverse coalitions.