An Indian-origin restaurateur in London has announced that he will close his establishment after 16 years, citing mounting challenges including rising costs, online harassment, repeated disturbances he attributes to Pakistani groups, and what he described as inadequate support from the Metropolitan Police. Harman Singh Kapoor, owner of Rangrez in Hammersmith, said on X that the restaurant will shut its doors next month after “16 unforgettable years.” In his post, he said the cumulative pressures had made it impossible to continue operating.”After 16 unforgettable years, I’ve made the difficult decision to close Rangrez restaurant Hammersmith next month. Rising costs, ongoing online harassment, repeated disturbances and attacks by Pakistanis and a lack of proper support from the Met Police have made it impossible to continue. Now it’s time for me to dedicate myself fully to activism without distraction,” he said in a post on X. Kapoor added that he now plans to focus fully on activism, saying attempts to disrupt his business would not weaken his resolve. He thanked customers who had supported the restaurant over the years.”Radicals should keep this in mind: you can disrupt my business, but not my will. I’m coming after you stronger now, with no strings attached. Thank you to every genuine customer who supported us over the years,” he added. The restaurant had previously been in the spotlight in 2023 after Kapoor alleged it was targeted following videos he posted on TikTok criticizing the Khalistan movement and figures linked to it, including preacher and MP Amritpal Singh.
