A ROW has broken out within Huddersfield’s Sikh community over a Government ban on cigarette displays in shops.

Newsagent and Sikh community leader Inderpal Randhawa has criticised a Government law which will outlaw tobacco displays from all shops by 2015.

But Mr Randhawa’s comments have caused anger among members of Fartown Sikh Temple, who have backed the Government ban.

They say Mr Randhawa should not be making such comments in his position as general secretary of Springwood Sikh Temple.

Sikhs gathered at Fartown Sikh Temple on Sunday to show their support for the ban.

Sikh scripture prohibits drinking and smoking although some Sikhs will drink and smoke when not in the temple.

Manjit Singh, spokesman for Fartown Sikh Temple, said: “We think Mr Randhawa has misused his name in the community.

“Cigarettes and alcohol are totally prohibited in our religion.

“As a senior member in the Sikh temple he should not say this or highlight these issues.

“If it was something else then no one would say anything but he is in a high position.