The grandmother of Vickrum Digwa, the man convicted of murdering 18-year-old Henry Nowak in a knife attack, has spoken publicly for the first time since the case sparked nationwide outrage and violent protests in Southampton. Bimla Kaur, 75, told the Daily Mail that the tragedy has devastated both the victim's family and her own, with some relatives now in hiding due to threats and fear of reprisals.
A Family in Turmoil
Speaking from her home in Southampton, Mrs Kaur described Digwa as a 'difficult boy' but defended her daughter-in-law, Kiran Kaur, who hid the murder weapon. 'She did what any mum would do to protect her son,' Mrs Kaur said. 'This whole case has destroyed two families: Henry's and mine. We still have to support him, but our hearts are broken.'
Following Digwa's conviction and the subsequent unrest in Southampton, his father Moga and brother Gurpreet have gone into hiding. 'It's not safe for them to be in their home because it was targeted the other night,' she added. 'We're all living in fear.'
The Nihang Connection
Mrs Kaur revealed that her family belongs to the Nihang order, a Sikh sect known for its martial traditions and expertise with weapons. 'Most of the men in this family are Nihangs, and so is Vickrum,' she explained. 'It's an important part of our faith, and I'm proud of that. But these weapons are not meant to be used on the innocent.'
Digwa, 23, regularly participated in combat sessions and owned numerous kirpans, though he also possessed illegal weapons. The judge noted his membership in the Nihang order but stated it was not a 'strict requirement' to carry multiple knives.
Community Reaction
Jas Singh, a fellow Nihang, condemned Digwa's actions, calling him a 'fake Nihang.' He said, 'Weapons are only to protect the faith and defend the innocent, not kill them. Digwa was a common thug.' Another gurdwara regular added that Digwa had a 'really bad temper' and that many locals are glad to see the family leave, as they have 'disgraced us all.'
Digwa's mother, Kiran Kaur, is currently on remand and due to be sentenced for assisting an offender. Mrs Kaur visited her in prison and said she is 'doing the best she can.' The family's car valeting business has closed, and they are considering leaving Southampton permanently.
