A child rights organisation has formally petitioned authorities in Punjab following a public appearance by the 2.5-year-old brother of the late singer Sidhu Moosewala, during which the child was observed imitating firearm gestures. The incident occurred on October 9 at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, during the opening performance of the ‘Signed to God World Tour,’ a series of events featuring a hologram tribute to the late artist.
Lawyers for Human Rights International (LFHRI) submitted a complaint on October 17 to the District Magistrate and the District Child Protection Unit in Mansa. The organisation has requested an official investigation into the circumstances surrounding the child’s actions, noting that the primary objective of their intervention is to ensure the welfare and safety of the toddler, Sukhdeep Singh Sidhu, who is frequently referred to by the public as 'Chhota Sidhu.'
During the Toronto concert, the child was accompanied by his parents, Balkaur Singh and Charan Kaur. According to the details provided in the complaint, the toddler was seen performing a pistol-like hand gesture while mimicking the sound of gunfire. Additionally, he performed the “thaapi,” a traditional thigh-slap gesture that had become synonymous with his late brother’s persona. Videos of these actions subsequently circulated widely on social media platforms, garnering significant attention from the public.
The LFHRI has highlighted that certain video footage appears to show adults in the child’s vicinity prompting or teaching him how to execute the firearm gestures. The group has expressed deep concern regarding the potential psychological implications of repeatedly exposing a child of such a tender age to these actions. They argue that encouraging a toddler to mimic the use of weapons could have long-term consequences on his development and safety.
The organisation has clarified that its complaint is not intended to target the family or diminish the memory of Sidhu Moosewala, who was killed in a targeted shooting in May 2022. Instead, they maintain that their focus is strictly on the protection of the child. The LFHRI is urging the district administration to take proactive steps to prevent such behaviour from being encouraged at future public events.
The ‘Signed to God World Tour’ is scheduled to continue through early November 2026, with performances planned in various cities, including Vancouver, Calgary, New York, Houston, and Oakland. Given that the child may continue to make appearances at subsequent tour events, the LFHRI has sought urgent intervention from the authorities. The group wants officials to verify whether adults surrounding the child are actively fostering the imitation of firearms and to implement necessary safeguards to protect his well-being.
As of the time of reporting, there has been no official response from the Mansa district administration or the family regarding the complaint filed. The matter remains under the consideration of local authorities, who are tasked with reviewing the child rights group’s concerns about the ongoing tour and the toddler’s involvement in future public engagements.
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