Nassar Iqbal, the well-known owner of Hot Spot takeaway in Birmingham’s Billesley area, has called on the public to “grow up” and reject hate ahead of a planned Far Right protest in the city. Iqbal, affectionately known as Uncle Nas, is recognized for his outspoken social media presence and community engagement.
The protest comes in response to the tragic December stabbing of 18-year-old Henry Nowak by Vickrum Singh Digwa, a Sikh man who had accused Nowak of assault and racism. This incident has unfortunately sparked tension and division, with some blaming entire communities for the actions of one individual.
Addressing this atmosphere of hostility, Iqbal emphasized the dangers of broad generalizations. “You can’t say it was a Sikh person who committed that crime and say all Sikhs are the same,” he stated firmly. “When a Muslim commits a crime, not all Muslims are the same. This applies to all ethnic and minority groups.”
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He continued, “People who are spreading hate between communities need to grow up. England is multicultural. We all live together, so we don’t need this hate. It’s 2026—we should be embracing love, not division.”
The Sikh community, represented by leaders like Jatinder Singh, president of Guru Nanak Gurdwara in Smethwick, has also condemned the murder and expressed the feeling of being unfairly judged. Recent protests and violence have further underscored the urgency for unity.
Iqbal concluded his message from outside his takeaway, located at 604-606 Yardley Wood Road, calling for harmony and understanding: “Have love in the community, not hate.”