London Sikh restaurant shuts over ‘Proudly we don’t sell halal’ sign

After 16 years in business, Rangrez, a Sikh-owned Indian restaurant in Hammersmith, London, has permanently shut down amid controversy surrounding its “Proudly we don’t sell halal” stance. The restaurant was owned by Indian-origin restaurateur Harman Singh Kapoor, who had publicly displayed signs stating that the establishment did not serve halal meat.
Following the move, the restaurant reportedly faced intense backlash, including online abuse, negative reviews, protests outside the premises, and alleged threats. Videos of confrontations involving protesters and police officers circulated widely on social media, further escalating tensions around the restaurant.
Kapoor also claimed that the Metropolitan Police failed to provide adequate support despite repeated disturbances outside the establishment. According to him, the ongoing harassment, safety concerns, and rising operational costs ultimately forced the closure of the restaurant.
The controversy was further amplified by Kapoor’s outspoken views online, including his criticism of certain groups and political movements, which drew both support and criticism. Announcing the closure, Kapoor said he now plans to focus more on activism and continue speaking out on issues he strongly believes in.