An Indian-origin Sikh restaurant owner in west London has alleged that the Metropolitan Police “repeatedly refused” to help his family despite serious threats, hours after he was detained and later released after a tense confrontation outside his restaurant.Rangrezz owner Harman Singh Kapoor claimed in a social media post that his “anger” was motivated by months of threats.“Many people are unhappy with my aggression against radical elements who are constantly making my life hell,” he wrote, adding: “The Metropolitan Police repeatedly refused to help my family when a mob of unruly radicals threatened to kill and rape us.”He also posted a video after his release, saying supporters had gathered outside the restaurant and calling his arrest “illegal”.

Tension for months over ‘non-halal’ stance

The controversy centers on Indian restaurant Rangrezz, a neighborhood in west London, which has operated for about 16 years and has already announced plans to close.Kapoor said that the business was under constant pressure after publicly announcing that it would not serve halal meat. A prominent sign outside the restaurant read: “Proudly we do not sell halal.”As a Sikh, Kapoor said he prefers to serve jerk meat, a method of slaughter that involves a single rapid blow, which some Sikhs consider religiously acceptable.According to him, this decision led to months of backlash, including fake online reviews, threats, and repeated confrontations.

Crowd gathers, situation worsens

Tensions reached a peak on 14 March when Kapoor promoted a “non-halal meetup” at the restaurant, asking supporters to attend and record any disturbances.Later that day, a large crowd gathered outside the premises in Hammersmith, with social media posts claiming that more than 100 people had surrounded the restaurant. Video shared online shows the heated atmosphere, with Kapoor describing the situation as dangerous.He said he carries his kirpan, a ceremonial Sikh blade, for protection amid fears for his family’s safety.

arrest and release

Kapoor said that hours after the crowd dispersed, the Metropolitan Police detained him for allegedly carrying a religious dagger.Police have not yet issued a detailed public statement clarifying the circumstances of the arrest or whether any charges were filed.Kapoor was later released, after which he posted videos showing supporters gathering outside the restaurant. In another post he wrote, “I can’t even hold a knife now, can’t even eat my food. I could get arrested by the Met Police.”What started as a dispute over halal and non-halal food has now turned into a broader cultural and political controversy. Kapoor’s supporters claim he is being targeted for practicing his religious beliefs and protecting his business, while critics argue the situation has worsened amid rising tensions over provocative messages and social media.