Support pours in for Sikh man removed from Mansfield nightclub for wearing a turban

Amrik Singh said he was originally allowed into Rush Late Bar, on Clumber Street, wearing the religious headwear, but was approached by a bouncer 30 minutes later who told him to take it off.

When Amrik refused, explaining he wears the turban as part of his faith, he claims he was “dragged away from his friends” and removed from the club.

The club has since apologised for Friday’s incident.

In an emotional Facebook post, Amrik said: “The fact I was being removed because of my religious views really upset me.

“My ancestors have fought for the British Army previously. Furthermore, me and my parents were born in Britain and all uphold British values.

“I was eventually let back into the venue, but was told I would not be allowed back in in the future because of my headwear.

“This experience ruined my night. It broke my heart. I’m fortunate I’m well spoken and able to stand up for myself.

“What if it was someone who wasn’t confident was told to leave? I am disgusted.

“I urge Rush takes immediate action and a long hard look at itself and changes its approach.”

In a recording taken by Amrik of the event, the Nottingham Trent University law student can be heard asking a bouncer why he has to leave.

The unnamed doorman replies “that’s just our policy” and “I didn’t think you were allowed to come for a drink anyway”.

Amrik has since thanked people for the support he has received since sharing his experience,.

He said: “I would like to, from the bottom of my heart, thank every single person who has showed me support with the recent issue at Rush.

“I’ve received thousands of supportive messages from people from all backgrounds and countries which I am truly grateful for.

“Sometimes we can get carried away and label a whole community based on the actions of a small minority. However, I urge everyone that you do not fall into this trap when it comes to this incident.”

In Sikhism, the turban is used to show others they represent the embodiment of Sikh teachings, as well as protecting the wearer’s uncut hair. The turban is mandatory for all initiated Sikhs to wear.

Ben Bradley, Mansfield MP, said he would be contacting the club’s management to ensure the “awful” incident was “dealt with properly”.

He said: “Clearly what has happened is awful, and nobody in Mansfield or in Britain should be discriminated against because of their religion.

“Having listened to the recording I am certain this incident is a case of ignorance, rather than anything malicious. It sounds like the bouncer didn’t understand the religious aspect of the man’s turban, but obviously that is not an excuse for what happened.

“I will be contacting the club’s management this week to ensure it’s investigated and dealt with properly.

“Everyone should feel happy and comfortable visiting Mansfield regardless or race, religion or anything else.”

A spokesman for Rush said: “We are extremely concerned about the incident that occurred.

“We are treating the whole incident extremely seriously and have suspended the door supervisor involved and a thorough investigation has been launched.

“We, as a venue, welcome all customers regardless of their race, ethnicity or background.

“The events of Friday night do not reflect the venue’s values and upon completion of our enquiries any necessary action will swiftly be taken.

“We offer our sincere apologies to the man involved for any upset, hurt and distress caused to him and anyone else.

“Just to clarify, he was invited back into the venue after this incident and was able to enjoy the rest of the evening.

The story has been shared hundreds of times since being posted on your Chad’s Facebook page at fb.com/mansfieldchad, and recieved dozens of comments, mostly in support of Amrik.

Shane Parkin said: “In the last two World Wars 83,005 turban wearing Sikh soldiers were killed and 109.045 were wounded. They all died or were wounded for the freedom of Britain and the world, enduring shellfire with no other protection but the turban, the symbol of their faith.”

Dawny Doordar said: “The Sikhs have done a lot for this country and stood by our side and fought with us in both World Wars.

“They deserve respect like any other English man. Unless he was causing trouble he should not have been removed from the club.”

However, not all comments were supportive.

Andrew Gee said: “If being thrown out of a club broke his heart, he needs to grow a pair and go to the next club.”

Some residents argued they had been refused entry into clubs for wearing caps, and the same rules should apply.

Bart Hanson said: “I can’t wear my cap in there? Just saying.”

However, Ricky Lee-Cooke hit back: “I was brought up to take hats off when going indoors. I was also educated about Sikhism at school and know a turban isn’t a hat and the reason why they’re worn.”