United Kingdom — Following the sentencing of Vickrum Singh Digwa for the murder of 18-year-old university student Henry Nowak, Sikh organizations across the United Kingdom have welcomed the court’s verdict while reaffirming that the crime was the responsibility of one individual and must not be used to stigmatize the Sikh faith or community.

In a joint statement issued after the conclusion of the trial, Sikh representative organizations expressed their deepest condolences to the family and friends of Henry Nowak, acknowledging the profound loss they have suffered. The groups stated that there can be no justification for the unlawful taking of a human life and affirmed that justice had been served through the conviction and life sentence imposed by the court.

Kirpan Not Used in the Crime
The organizations also addressed widespread media references to the murder weapon as a “ceremonial knife” or “Kirpan.” They emphasized that Sikh teachings strictly prohibit the misuse of any article of faith and that the legal exemption allowing initiated Sikhs to wear a Kirpan exists solely for genuine religious observance. Once a bladed article is used unlawfully, it ceases to enjoy that protection under British law and is treated as an offensive weapon. Sikh representatives further noted that evidence presented during the trial indicated the weapon used was not a standard Kirpan worn by practicing Sikhs, making it important to distinguish between a religious article of faith and a weapon used in a criminal act.

Community leaders voiced concern that inaccurate reporting and sensational headlines have contributed to a rise in anti-Sikh abuse directed at innocent members of the community. They urged journalists and public officials to use accurate terminology and avoid language that unfairly associates Sikh religious practices with criminal violence.

The organizations reaffirmed that the Kirpan symbolizes justice, compassion, self-discipline, and the duty to protect the weak and oppressed. It is not a weapon intended for aggression or intimidation, and its significance should not be judged by the criminal actions of an individual who violated both the law and the core principles of Sikhism.

Sikh Community Concerns
Sikh leaders also welcomed the judge’s recognition that the privilege of carrying a Kirpan carries a corresponding responsibility to uphold the highest standards of conduct. They reiterated that Sikhs who exercise this religious freedom must do so with humility, restraint, and respect for the law.

While the criminal proceedings have concluded, Sikh organizations continue to call for balanced public discourse and greater education about Sikh beliefs and practices. They stressed that Henry Nowak’s tragic death should unite communities in rejecting violence rather than deepen misunderstanding or prejudice.

Statement from Nowak Family
In a statement to the press Henry Nowak’s father, Mark, explicitly stated: “We do not want his death to be used to create further division, hatred, or tension. We want his story to make our streets safer for everyone”. He emphasized that the focus should be on positive change rather than politicizing the tragedy.

The community’s message remains clear: justice has been delivered for the victim, the actions of the offender deserve unequivocal condemnation, and the criminal conduct of one individual must never be used to define an entire faith or its millions of peaceful adherents worldwide.

Courtesy: TV84

Courtesy: TV84

CHANDIGARH, PUNJAB — Akal Federation Chief Bhai Kanwar Singh Dhami, a steadfast Panthic figure and lifelong advocate for Sikh rights and a dedicated community sewadar, passed away on January 9th at a private hospital Chandigarh. His passing has sent a wave of sorrow across Panthic circles in Punjab and the global Sikh diaspora.

Bhai Kanwar Singh Dhami was closely associated with Gur Asra Trust in Sector 55, Palsora, Chandigarh where he cared for and educated numerous children, including the children of Shaheeds during the earlier decades. He was widely respected for his uncompromising stand on Panth, principles, and justice. Throughout his life, he remained deeply committed to Sikh causes, especially during the darkest and most testing times for the Panth in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Supporters remember him as a man of courage, and unshakable resolve.

Challenged KP Gill’s Surrender Drama

One of the most defining moments of Bhai Sahib’s life came in 1994, when Punjab Police arranged a press conference in Chandigarh to project his so-called “surrender.” In a moment that has since become etched in Panthic memory, Bhai Kanwar Singh Dhami refused to bow to pressure, and instead of reading a prepared statement, he boldly spoke the truth by openly challenging then Punjab Police chief KP Gill.

Standing before the media and senior officials, Bhai Sahib declared that he and his family had been kept in illegal detention and subjected to coercion. Rejecting the narrative imposed upon him, he raised Panthic slogans and exposed the repression faced by Sikh families during that era. “ਸੱਚ ਬੋਲਣਾ ਮੇਰਾ ਫ਼ਰਜ਼ ਹੈ (It is my duty to speak the truth.)” he reportedly stated, even as police forcibly removed him from the stage. For many Sikhs, that moment symbolized a rare and fearless public stand against state oppression at a time when silence was enforced through fear.

Human rights groups later cited Bhai Dhami’s case while raising concerns about illegal detentions, custodial abuse, and intimidation during counter-insurgency operations in Punjab. Within the Panth, his stand is remembered not merely as an act of defiance, but as an example of Chardi Kalaa in the face of tyranny.

Bhai Kanwar Singh Dhami’s struggle was not his alone — his family endured grievous suffering alongside him. According to historical records, his wife was tortured and even lost her unborn child after authorities attempted to force a false confession. Later pressure on his wife, a former schoolteacher, reportedly led to severe harassment and a nervous breakdown under state intimidation tactics. Their six-year-old son was also caught in this campaign of coercion and fear, illustrating the profound sacrifices borne by his loved ones in pursuit of truth and justice for the Panth.

Bhai Sahib endured multiple imprisonments and had the honor of working closely with Sant Jarnail Singh Ji Khalsa Bhindranwale. On 26 January 1984, Bhai Kanwar Singh Dhami, along with prominent Panthic figures including Jathedar Bhai Jagjit Singh Nihang Khudda, Shaheed Bhai Swaran Singh Nihang Khudda, Shaheed Bhai Gurmeet Singh Khudda, Bhai Manjit Singh Bolewal, and Bhai Pritam Singh Jahura, issued the Khalistan Constitution from the parkarma (ramparts) of Sri Akal Takht Sahib under the banner of Akal Federation.

In the years that followed, Bhai Kanwar Singh Dhami remained connected to Panthic causes while keeping a low public profile. Those close to him say he never sought fame or recognition. “Bhai Sahib lived quietly, but his stand spoke loudly,” said one Panthic activist. Another remarked, “He showed the Panth what it means to refuse jhooth, even when the cost is high.”

Following news of his passing, tributes poured in from Sikh organizations and community members, many describing him as a Gursikh who never compromised. “This is a major loss to the Panth,” read one statement. “Bhai Kanwar Singh Dhami will be remembered among those who stood firm when the Panth was under siege.”

Bhai Kanwar Singh Dhami’s Antim Sankar was performed at cremation grounds in sector 55 of Chandigarh and was honored by various Panthic organizations and personalities during the services.

Read the full Gurmukhi version of this article below.

INDORE, MADHYA PRADES – A fresh controversy has surfaced surrounding key officials of the Central Sri Guru Singh Sabha and affiliated Gurdwara Management Committees in Indore, Madhya Pradesh who are linked to the ruling Bhatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). These individuals, holding prominent religious and educational positions, are facing criticism for engaging in entertainment and leisure activities at a time when the Sikh community worldwide was observing solemn martyrdom anniversaries.

Ojectionable Behaviour during Shaheedee Anniversaries

Videos and photos uploaded by these leaders themselves on social media show them dancing, partying, and vacationing on the beaches of Goa, reportedly staying at a luxury Taj hotel and arriving via a chartered flight. The timing of this trip has sparked outrage, as it coincided with the martyrdom day of Sri Guru Arjan Dev Ji and the remembrance of the 1984 Operation Blue Star assault on Sri Darbar Sahib Complex, both of deep emotional and spiritual significance for Sikhs.

Prominent among those featured in the videos are Harpal Singh alias “Monu Bhatia” (current President of the Central Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Indore), Avtar Singh Saini, Sonu Bagga, Surjeet Singh Tuteja (General Secretary, MP Central Sri Guru Singh Sabha), Kamaljit Singh Chhabra (President, Gurdwara Sri Guru Har Rai Ji), Rikki Gandhi, and Manpreet Singh, among 81 others.

These individuals not only hold roles in religious institutions but also serve on the boards of Sikh educational bodies like Khalsa College, Mumbai, and the governing body of Sri Guru Granth Sahib University, Fatehgarh Sahib. However, their recent conduct—posting videos of singing, dancing, and partying—has drawn widespread condemnation.

Sardar Kapur Singh’s Prophecy Resurfaces

In this context, a poem by the late Panthic intellectual Sardar Kapur Singh, former Member of Parliament and ICS officer, has gained renewed attention. His satirical lines, written decades ago, seemingly forecast the current state of affairs, criticizing pseudo-religious leaders who form alliances with political powers while neglecting Sikh values:

“Alliances with the Sangh, chanting donations nonstop,
Sikh heritage forgotten, looting with both hands…
Banners fly, flowers adorn their cars,
They dance and drink, far from Panthic scars…”

ਸ਼੍ਰੌਮਣੀ ਹਮਾਰੀ ਰਹੇ ਸੇਵਾ ਚੰਦਾ ਜਾਰੀ ਰਹੇ,
ਸੰਘ ਨਾਲ ਯਾਰੀ ਰਹੇ ,ਥੱਲੇ ਆਰੀਆ ਸਮਾਜ ਕੇ,
ਸਿੱਖੀ ਕੀ ਨਾ ਬਾਤ ਚੱਲੇ, ਪੰਥ ਕੀ ਨਾ ਗਾਥ ਚੱਲੇ ,
ਲੂਟ ਦੋਨੋਂ ਹਾਥ ਚੱਲੇ,ਸੰਗ ਸਾਜ ਬਾਜ ਕੇ,
ਅਕਲ ਕੀ ਨਾ ਗੱਲ ਰਹੇ, ਇੱਕੋ ਕਾਲੀ ਦਲ ਰਹੇ,
ਨਿੱਤ ਤਰਥੱਲ ਰਹੇ, ਜ਼ਿੰਦਾਬਾਦ ਗਾਜ ਕੇ,
ਝੰਡੀ ਵਾਲੀ ਕਾਰ ਰਹੇ,ਫੂਲਣ ਕੇ ਹਾਰ ਰਹੇਂ,
ਗੋਲਕੇਂ ਭਰਪੂਰ ਕਰੇ, ਸਿੱਖ ਭਾਜ ਭਾਜ ਕੇ,
ਪੰਥ ਕੇ ਦਰਦ ਹੇਤ ਬੁੱਧੀ ਕੀ ਜੋ ਸੇਧ ਦੇਵੇ,
ਨਿਕਟ ਨਾ ਆਣੇ ਪਾਵੇ,ਰਾਜ ਭਾਗ ਕਾਜ ਕੇ,,
ਜਥੇਦਾਰ ਕਹਿਤ,ਬਿਰਾਜੋ,ਮਤ ਭਾਜੋ ਸਿੱਖੋ,
ਝੂਲਤੇ ਨਿਸ਼ਾਨ ਰਹੇਂ ਪੰਥ ਮਹਾਰਾਜ ਕੇ

The poem’s relevance today is striking, with many believing it aptly describes the current leadership of the Central Sri Guru Singh Sabha in Indore.

Links With BJP, RSS Under Scrutiny

These leaders are known to maintain strong ties with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), attending their programs and sharing photos and videos with senior Sangh figures on social media. Critics argue that these ties have helped them remain in power and avoid accountability, even after multiple complaints were lodged with Sri Akal Takht Sahib regarding their actions.

Sources suggest that these officials, including some accused of involvement in the liquor trade and land dealings, regularly organize culturally inappropriate events under the guise of Sikh functions. Despite widespread community concern, no formal action has been taken.

Mixed Reactions From Sikh Leadership

When contacted, many current and former Sikh leaders from Indore refused to comment or did not answer calls. However, Jasbir Singh Gandhi, former President of the Central Sri Guru Singh Sabha and a long-time General Secretary, confirmed the close ties these individuals maintain with Takht Jathedars and political leaders, which he claims has prevented any disciplinary action.

In contrast, Avtar Singh Saini acknowledged the Goa trip but defended it as a private picnic unrelated to religious affairs. He admitted, however, that such videos should not have been posted publicly.

Monu Bhatia, current President and one of the key figures involved in the Goa event, also defended the trip, stating it was an annual group vacation for a large Sikh circle from Indore. “There was nothing wrong in dancing on a cruise; it was purely recreational,” he stated.

Calls for Action

However, voices from within the community are demanding accountability. Several concerned Sikhs from Indore, speaking anonymously, expressed frustration over the hold these “pseudo-leaders” have on religious institutions due to their political backing. They urged Sri Akal Takht Sahib and major Sikh organizations to take stern action and restore Panthic decorum in leadership.

As the Sikh community mourns its martyrs, the behavior of these self-styled leaders has ignited a debate about the integrity of those at the helm of Sikh religious and educational institutions—and whether their actions reflect the spiritual and moral standards expected by the Panth.

Sikh Scholar Anurag Singh on his Facebook page highlighted the RSS/BJP connected politicians coalescing with various Punjab based Sikh leaders including present and past Takht Jathedars, Budha Dal and SGPC leaders.

(1) Anurag Singh – ਹਾਥੀ ਕੇ ਦਾਂਤ ਖਾਣੇ ਕੇ ਔਰ,ਦਿਖਾਣੇ ਕੇ ਔਰ:ਅਕਾਲੀ ਦੱਲ ਦਾ… | Facebook

Video Sources and partial list of videos:
https://www.facebook.com/sonu.bagga.205542/videos
https://www.facebook.com/sonu.bagga.205542/videos/9693989504044620 
https://www.facebook.com/sonu.bagga.205542/videos/9921694174575880
https://www.facebook.com/sonu.bagga.205542/videos/4245850625742730
https://www.facebook.com/sonu.bagga.205542/videos/1593612591313977

Gurmukhi Format:

ਭਾਜਪਾ ਤੇ ਸੰਘ ਨਾਲ ਯਾਰੀ ਪਾ ਕੇ ਕੇਂਦਰੀ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਸਿੰਘ ਸਭਾ ਤੇ ਗੁਰਦੁਆਰਾ ਪ੍ਰਬੰਧਕ ਕਮੇਟੀਆਂ, ਇੰਦੌਰ ਮੱਧ ਪ੍ਰਦੇਸ਼ ਦੇ ਅਹੁਦੇਦਾਰ ਗੁਰਮਤਿ ਰਹਿਣੀ ਬਹਿਣੀ ਨੂੰ ਲਾਂਭੇ ਕਰਕੇ ਬਣੇ ਰੰਗੀਨ ਮਿਜਾਜ

ਪੰਥ ਦੇ ਰੌਸਨ ਦਿਮਾਗ ਸਿਰਦਾਰ ਕਪੂਰ ਸਿੰਘ ਸਾਬਕਾ ਡਿਪਟੀ ਕਮਿਸ਼ਨਰ ਤੇ ਮੈਂਬਰ ਲੋਕ ਸਭਾ ਨੇ ਅਖੌਤੀ ਪੰਥਕ ਲੀਡਰਾਂ ਦੇ ਕਿਰਦਾਰ ਨੂੰ ਇੱਕ ਛੋਟੀ ਕਵਿਤਾ ਵਿੱਚ ਬਿਆਨ ਕੀਤਾ ਸੀ:

ਸ਼੍ਰੌਮਣੀ ਹਮਾਰੀ ਰਹੇ ਸੇਵਾ ਚੰਦਾ ਜਾਰੀ ਰਹੇ, ਸੰਘ ਨਾਲ ਯਾਰੀ ਰਹੇ ,ਥੱਲੇ ਆਰੀਆ ਸਮਾਜ ਕੇ,
ਸਿੱਖੀ ਕੀ ਨਾ ਬਾਤ ਚੱਲੇ, ਪੰਥ ਕੀ ਨਾ ਗਾਥ ਚੱਲੇ , ਲੂਟ ਦੋਨੋਂ ਹਾਥ ਚੱਲੇ,ਸੰਗ ਸਾਜ ਬਾਜ ਕੇ,
ਅਕਲ ਕੀ ਨਾ ਗੱਲ ਰਹੇ, ਇੱਕੋ ਕਾਲੀ ਦਲ ਰਹੇ, ਨਿੱਤ ਤਰਥੱਲ ਰਹੇ, ਜ਼ਿੰਦਾਬਾਦ ਗਾਜ ਕੇ,
ਝੰਡੀ ਵਾਲੀ ਕਾਰ ਰਹੇ,ਫੂਲਣ ਕੇ ਹਾਰ ਰਹੇਂ, ਗੋਲਕੇਂ ਭਰਪੂਰ ਕਰੇ, ਸਿੱਖ ਭਾਜ ਭਾਜ ਕੇ,
ਪੰਥ ਕੇ ਦਰਦ ਹੇਤ ਬੁੱਧੀ ਕੀ ਜੋ ਸੇਧ ਦੇਵੇ, ਨਿਕਟ ਨਾ ਆਣੇ ਪਾਵੇ,ਰਾਜ ਭਾਗ ਕਾਜ ਕੇ
ਜਥੇਦਾਰ ਕਹਿਤ,ਬਿਰਾਜੋ,ਮਤ ਭਾਜੋ ਸਿੱਖੋ, ਝੂਲਤੇ ਨਿਸ਼ਾਨ ਰਹੇਂ ਪੰਥ ਮਹਾਰਾਜ ਕੇ

ਸਰਦਾਰ ਕਪੂਰ ਸਿੰਘ ਜੀ ਨੇ ਭਾਵੇਂ ਇਹ ਕਵਿਤਾ ਬਹੁਤ ਸਾਲ ਪਹਿਲਾਂ ਲਿਖੀ ਸੀ ਪਰ ਇਹ ਕਵਿਤਾ ਕੇਂਦਰੀ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਸਿੰਘ ਸਭਾ ਇੰਦੌਰ ਤੇ ਉਥੋਂ ਦੇ ਗੁਰਦੁਆਰਾ ਪ੍ਰਬੰਧਕ ਕਮੇਟੀਆਂ ਦੇ ਕਈ ਅਹੁਦੇਦਾਰਾਂ ਤੇ ਪੂਰੀ ਤਰ੍ਹਾਂ ਢੁਕਦੀ ਹੈ । ਇਹ ਅਹੁਦੇਦਾਰ ਜਿੱਥੇ ਗੁਰਦੁਆਰਾ ਪ੍ਰਬੰਧਕ ਕਮੇਟੀਆਂ ਦੇ ਮੈਂਬਰ ਨੇ, ਕੇਂਦਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਸਿੰਘ ਸਭਾ ਦੇ ਅਹੁਦੇਦਾਰ ਨੇ, ਖਾਲਸਾ ਕਾਲਜ ਬੰਬਈ ਦੇ ਸੀਨੀਅਰ ਮੈਂਬਰ ਨੇ, ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗ੍ਰੰਥ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਯੂਨੀਵਰਸਿਟੀ ਫਤਿਹਗੜ੍ਹ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਗਵਰਨਰ ਬਾਡੀ ਮੈਂਬਰ ਨੇ, ਉਹਨਾਂ ਵੱਲੋਂ ਆਪਣੇ ਸੋਸ਼ਲ ਮੀਡੀਆ ਤੇ ਆਪਣੇ ਨਾਚ ਗਾਣੇ ਅਤੇ ਰੰਗੀਨ ਮਿਜਾਜੀ ਨਾਲ ਮਨੋਰੰਜਨ ਕਰਦਿਆਂ ਦੀਆਂ ਵੀਡੀਓ ਫੋਟੋਆਂ ਅਪਲੋਡ ਕੀਤੀਆਂ ਹਨ। ਇਹ ਰੰਗੀਨ ਮਿਜਾਜੀ ਮਨੋਰੰਜਨ ਦੀਆਂ ਵੀਡੀਓ ਅਤੇ ਫੋਟੋਆਂ ਉਸ ਸਮੇਂ ਅਪਲੋਡ ਕੀਤੀ ਗਈਆ ਜਦੋਂ ਸਾਰੀ ਸਿੱਖ ਕੌਮ ਸ਼ਹੀਦਾਂ ਦੇ ਸਿਰਤਾਜ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਅਰਜਨ ਦੇਵ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਸ਼ਹੀਦੀ ਦਿਹਾੜੇ ਨੂੰ ਅਤੇ ਸਾਕਾ ਨੀਲਾ ਤਾਰਾ ਦੇ ਤੀਜੇ ਘੱਲੂਘਾਰੇ ਦੇ ਮਹਾਨ ਸ਼ਹੀਦਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਯਾਦ ਕਰ ਰਹੀ ਸੀ।

ਇਹ ਅਖੌਤੀ ਪੰਥਕ ਆਗੂ ਆਪਣੇ ਸੋਸ਼ਲ ਮੀਡੀਆ ਤੇ ਅਕਸਰ ਤਖਤਾਂ ਦੇ ਜਥੇਦਾਰ, ਸ਼੍ਰੌਮਣੀ ਕਮੇਟੀ ਪ੍ਰਧਾਨ,ਨਿਹੰਗ ਸਿੰਘ ਆਗੂਆਂ ਅਤੇ ਹੋਰਨਾਂ ਪੰਥਕ ਆਗੂਆਂ ਨਾਲ ਆਪਣੀਆਂ ਫੋਟੋਆਂ ਅਤੇ ਵੀਡੀਓ ਅਕਸਰ ਪ੍ਰਕਾਸ਼ਿਤ ਕਰਦੇ ਰਹਿੰਦੇ ਹਨ ਜੋ ਕਿ ਸਾਡੇ ਕੋਲ ਵੀ ਮੌਜੂਦ ਹਨ। ਇਹਨਾਂ ਫੋਟੋਆਂ ਅਤੇ ਵੀਡੀਓਜ ਨੂੰ ਵੇਖ ਕੇ ਇੰਝ ਲੱਗਦਾ ਹੈ ਕਿ ਇਹ ਕੇਵਲ ਦਿਖਾਵੇ ਮਾਤਰ ਅਤੇ ਪੰਥ ਵਿੱਚ ਆਪਣੀ ਬੱਲੇ-ਬੱਲੇ ਕਰਵਾਉਣ ਲਈ ਹਨ, ਜਾਂ ਤਾਂ ਤਖਤਾਂ ਦੇ ਜਥੇਦਾਰ, ਸ਼੍ਰੋਮਣੀ ਕਮੇਟੀ ਪ੍ਰਧਾਨ, ਅਤੇ ਹੋਰ ਨਿਹੰਗ ਸਿੰਘ ਆਗੂਆਂ ਨੂੰ ਇਹਨਾਂ ਦੀ ਰਹਿਣੀ ਬਹਿਣੀ ਅਤੇ ਕਿਰਦਾਰ ਦਾ ਪਤਾ ਨਹੀਂ ਜਾਂ ਉਹ ਇਹਨਾਂ ਕੋਲੋਂ ਮਾਇਆ ਦੇ ਗੱਫੇ ਅਤੇ ਸਿਰੋਪੇ ਲੈਣ ਖਾਤਰ ਇਹਨਾਂ ਦੇ ਕਿਰਦਾਰ ਨੂੰ ਅੱਖੋਂ ਪਰੋਖੇ ਕਰਦੇ ਹਨ। ਅਤੇ ਬੜੀ ਬੇਸ਼ਰਮੀ ਦੀ ਗੱਲ ਹੈ ਕਿ ਅਜਿਹੇ ਮਹਾਨ ਵਿਅਕਤੀਆਂ ਦੀ ਸੰਗਤ ਨਾਲ ਵੀ ਇਹਨਾਂ ਅਖੌਤੀ ਸਿੰਘ ਸਭਾ ਆਗੂਆਂ ਦੇ ਜੀਵਨ ਉੱਤੇ ਜਾਂ ਇਹਨਾਂ ਦੇ ਪਰਿਵਾਰਾਂ ਦੇ ਜੀਵਨ ਉੱਤੇ ਗੁਰਮਤਿ ਰਹਿਣੀ ਬਹਿਣੀ ਦਾ ਕੋਈ ਅਸਰ ਨਹੀਂ ਦਿਸਦਾ।

ਹੁਣ ਜਦੋਂ ਸਾਰੀ ਕੌਮ ਸ਼ਹੀਦਾਂ ਦੇ ਸਿਰਤਾਜ ਗੁਰੂ ਅਰਜਨ ਦੇਵ ਜੀ ਦਾ ਸ਼ਹੀਦੀ ਦਿਹਾੜਾ ਅਤੇ ਤੀਜੇ ਘੱਲੂਘਾਰੇ ਸਾਕਾ ਨੀਲਾ ਤਾਰਾ ਦੇ ਸ਼ਹੀਦਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਯਾਦ ਕਰ ਰਹੀ ਹੈ ਤਾਂ ਇਸ ਸਮੇਂ ਕੇਂਦਰੀ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਸਿੰਘ ਸਭਾ ਇੰਦੌਰ ਦੇ ਮੌਜੂਦਾ ਪ੍ਰਧਾਨ ਹਰਪਾਲ ਸਿੰਘ ਉਰਫ “ਮੋਨੂ ਭਾਟੀਆ”, ਅਵਤਾਰ ਸਿੰਘ ਸੈਣੀ, ਸੋਨੂੰ ਬੱਗਾ, ਸੁਰਜੀਤ ਸਿੰਘ ਟੂਟੇਜਾ ਸਕੱਤਰ ਮੱਧ ਪ੍ਰਦੇਸ਼ ਕੇਂਦਰੀ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਸਿੰਘ ਸਭਾ, ਕਮਲਜੀਤ ਸਿੰਘ ਛਾਬੜਾ ਮੀਤ ਪ੍ਰਧਾਨ ਗੁਰਦੁਆਰਾ ਸ਼੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਹਰਿਰਾਏ ਜੀ, ਰਿੱਕੀ ਗਾਂਧੀ ਅਤੇ ਮਨਪ੍ਰੀਤ ਸਿੰਘ ਮੈਂਬਰ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਸਿੰਘ ਸਭਾ ਸਮੇਤ ੮੧ ਹੋਰ ਇਹਨਾਂ ਨਾਲ ਸੰਬੰਧਿਤ ਪਤਵੰਤੇ ਸਿੱਖ ਗੋਆ ਦੇ ਸਮੁੰਦਰ ਕਿਨਾਰੇ ਮਨੋਰੰਜਨ ਕਰਦੇ ਹੋਏ ਖੁਸ਼ੀਆਂ ਮਨਾ ਰਹੇ ਹਨ।

ਪ੍ਰਾਪਤ ਸੂਚਨਾਵਾਂ ਅਨੁਸਾਰ ਇਹ ਸਾਰੇ ਵਿਸ਼ੇਸ਼ ਜਹਾਜ ਰਾਹੀਂ ਗੋਆ ਪਹੁੰਚੇ ਤੇ ਉਥੋਂ ਦੇ ਪ੍ਰਸਿੱਧ ਤਾਜ ਹੋਟਲ ਵਿੱਚ ਠਹਿਰੇ। ਗੋਆ ਵਿਚ ਹੀ ਸਮੁੰਦਰ ਦੇ ਕਿਨਾਰੇ ਨੱਚਦੇ ਗਾਉਂਦੇ ਚੀਕਾਂ ਮਾਰਦੇ ਅਤੇ ਮਨੋਰੰਜਨ ਕਰਦਿਆਂ ਦੀਆਂ ਵੀਡੀਓ ਇਹਨਾਂ ਨੇ ਆਪ ਸੋਸ਼ਲ ਮੀਡੀਆ ਤੇ ਪਾਈਆਂ ਹਨ ਇਸ ਤੋਂ ਇਲਾਵਾ ਕਲੱਬਾਂ ਵਿੱਚ ਨੱਚਦਿਆਂ ਦੀਆਂ ਵੀਡੀਓਜ ਵੀ ਇਹਨਾਂ ਆਪ ਆਪਣੇ ਸੋਸ਼ਲ ਮੀਡੀਆ ਖਾਤਿਆਂ ਤੋਂ ਅਪਲੋਡ ਕੀਤੀਆਂ ਹਨ। ਆਰ ਐਸ ਐਸ ਦੇ ਸੀਨੀਅਰ ਆਗੂਆਂ ਨਾਲ ਮੀਟਿੰਗਾਂ ਤੇ ਸਬੰਧਾ ਅਤੇ ਉਹਨਾਂ ਵੱਲੋਂ ਆਯੋਜਿਤ ਕੀਤੇ ਪ੍ਰੋਗਰਾਮਾਂ ਵਿੱਚ ਹਿੱਸਾ ਲੈਂਦਿਆਂ ਦੀਆਂ ਫੋਟੋਆਂ ਤੇ ਵੀਡੀਓਜ ਇਹ ਆਪ ਆਪਣੇ ਸੋਸ਼ਲ ਮੀਡੀਆ ਤੇ ਬੜੀ ਸ਼ਾਨ ਨਾਲ ਪਾਉਂਦੇ ਹਨ।

ਕੇਂਦਰੀ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਸਿੰਘ ਸਭਾ ਜਿਸ ਦਾ ਮਨੋਰਥ ਨਿਰੋਲ ਸਿੱਖੀ ਦਾ ਪ੍ਰਚਾਰ ਕਰਨਾ ਹੈ ਪਰ ਬੀਤੇ ਕਾਫੀ ਸਮੇਂ ਤੋਂ ਇਹਨਾਂ ਦੇ ਪ੍ਰਧਾਨ, ਅਹੁਦੇਦਾਰ ਤੇ ਹੋਰ ਮੈਂਬਰ ਆਪਣੀਆਂ ਹਰਕਤਾਂ ਕਰਕੇ ਚਰਚਾ ਵਿੱਚ ਰਹਿੰਦੇ ਹਨ। ਸਿੱਖੀ ਪ੍ਰਚਾਰ ਨੂੰ ਦਰ ਕਿਨਾਰ ਕਰਦੇ ਹੋਏ ਇਸ ਸੰਸਥਾ ਦੇ ਉੱਚ ਅਹੁਦੇਦਾਰ ਜੋ ਭੂ ਮਾਫੀਆ ਅਤੇ ਸ਼ਰਾਬ ਦੇ ਵੱਡੇ ਕਾਰੋਬਾਰੀ ਹਨ ਉਹਨਾਂ ਵੱਲੋਂ ਨਾਚ ਗਾਣਿਆਂ ਦੇ ਅਸਭਿੱਆਚਾਰਕ ਪ੍ਰੋਗਰਾਮ ਅਕਸਰ ਕਰਵਾਏ ਜਾਂਦੇ ਹਨ। ਇਹਨਾਂ ਦੀਆਂ ਸਿੱਖ ਵਿਰੋਧੀ ਹਰਕਤਾਂ ਕਾਰਨ ਇਹਨਾਂ ਦੀ ਸ਼ਿਕਾਇਤ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਅਕਾਲ ਤਖਤ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਤੇ ਹੋ ਚੁੱਕੀ ਹੈ ਪਰ ਅਜੇ ਤੱਕ ਕੋਈ ਫੈਸਲਾ ਨਹੀਂ ਲਿਆ ਗਿਆ। ਰਾਸ਼ਟਰੀ ਸਵੈਮ ਸੰਘ ਤੇ ਭਾਜਪਾ ਨਾਲ ਡੂੰਘੇ ਸਬੰਧਾਂ ਕਾਰਨ ਇਹ ਪਿਛਲੇ ਕਾਫੀ ਲੰਮੇ ਸਮੇਂ ਤੋਂ ਕੇਂਦਰੀ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਸਿੰਘ ਸਭਾ ਸੰਸਥਾ ਤੇ ਕਾਬਜ਼ ਹਨ। ਹੁਣ ਜਦੋਂ ਸਿੱਖ ਕੌਮ ਸ਼ਹੀਦਾਂ ਦੇ ਸਿਰਤਾਜ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਅਰਜਨ ਦੇਵ ਜੀ ਦਾ ਸ਼ਹੀਦੀ ਦਿਹਾੜਾ ਅਤੇ ਤੀਜੇ ਘੱਲੂਘਾਰੇ ਸਾਕਾ ਨੀਲਾ ਤਾਰਾ ਦੇ ਸ਼ਹੀਦਾਂ ਦੀ ਯਾਦ ਮਨਾ ਰਹੀ ਹੈ ਤਾਂ ਇਹਨਾਂ ਅਖੌਤੀ ਸਿੱਖ ਪ੍ਰਧਾਨਾਂ, ਅਹੁਦੇਦਾਰ ਤੇ ਮੈਂਬਰਾਂ ਵੱਲੋਂ ਗੋਆ ਦੇ ਤਾਜ ਹੋਟਲਾਂ ਤੇ ਸਮੁੰਦਰ ਕਿਨਾਰੇ ਨਾਚ ਗਾਣਿਆ ਤੇ ਨੱਚਦੇ ਹੋਏ ਅਤੇ ਮਨੋਰੰਜਨ ਕਰਦਿਆਂ ਚੀਕਾਂ ਮਾਰਦਿਆਂ ਦੀਆਂ ਨਸ਼ਰ ਵੀਡੀਓਜ਼ ਨੇ ਇਹਨਾਂ ਦੀ ਗੁਰਮਤਿ ਵਿਹੂਣੀ ਮਾਨਸਿਕਤਾ ਨੂੰ ਨੰਗਿਆਂ ਕਰ ਦਿੱਤਾ ਹੈ।

ਇਸ ਸਬੰਧੀ ਇੰਦੌਰ ਦੇ ਕੇਂਦਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਸਿੰਘ ਸਭਾ ਤੇ ਗੁਰਦੁਆਰਾ ਪ੍ਰਬੰਧਕਾਂ ਦੇ ਅਨੇਕਾਂ ਸਾਬਕਾ ਤੇ ਮੌਜੂਦਾ ਆਗੂਆਂ ਨਾਲ ਫੋਨ ਤੇ ਗੱਲ ਕੀਤੀ ਇਹਨਾਂ ਵਿਚੋਂ ਬਹੁਤਿਆਂ ਨੇ ਫੋਨ ਹੀ ਨਹੀਂ ਚੁੱਕੇ। ਪਰ ਕੇਂਦਰੀ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਸਿੰਘ ਸਭਾ ਇੰਦੌਰ ਦੇ ਸਾਬਕਾ ਪ੍ਰਧਾਨ ਜਸਬੀਰ ਸਿੰਘ ਗਾਂਧੀ ਜੀ ਨੇ ਦੱਸਿਆ ਕਿ ਉਹ ੨੭ ਸਾਲ ਸਾਲ ਇਸ ਸੰਸਥਾ ਦੇ ਜਨਰਲ ਸਕੱਤਰ ਰਹਿ ਚੁੱਕੇ ਹਨ , ਉਹਨਾਂ ਦੱਸਿਆ ਕਿ ਇਸ ਸੰਸਥਾ ਦੇ ਮੌਜੂਦਾ ਪ੍ਰਧਾਨ ਆਗੂਆਂ ਦਾ ਤਖਤਾਂ ਦੇ ਜਥੇਦਾਰਾਂ ਨਾਲ ਡੂੰਘੇ ਸਬੰਧ ਹਨ ਜਿਸ ਕਾਰਣ ਇਹਨਾਂ ਵਿਰੁੱਧ ਕੋਈ ਵੀ ਕਾਰਵਾਈ ਨਹੀਂ ਹੋ ਸਕਦੀ, ਉਹਨਾਂ ਹੋਰ ਦੱਸਿਆ ਕਿ ਸਾਡਾ ਇੱਥੋਂ ਦਾ ਸਿੱਖ ਸਮਾਜ ਗੁਰਮਤਿ ਤੋਂ ਦੂਰ ਜਾ ਰਿਹਾ ਹੈ ਤੇ ਇਹ ਆਗੂ ਇਥੋਂ ਦੇ ਸਥਾਨਕ ਸਿੱਖਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਆਪਣੇ ਨਾਲ ਜੋੜੀ ਰੱਖਣ ਲਈ ਭੰਗੜੇ ਗਿੱਧੇ ਸੋਹਣੀ ਮੁਟਿਆਰ ਜਿਹੇ ਅਸਭਿਆਚਾਰਕ ਪ੍ਰੋਗਰਾਮ ਕਰਵਾਉਂਦੇ ਹਨ

ਸਿੱਖ ਆਗੂ ਅਵਤਾਰ ਸਿੰਘ ਸੈਣੀ ਨੇ ਦੱਸਿਆ ਕਿ ਪਿਕਨਿਕ ਤੇ ਜਾ ਕੇ ਗਾਣਿਆਂ ਤੇ ਨਾਚ ਭੰਗੜੇ ਪਾਉਂਦਿਆ ਚੀਕਾਂ ਮਾਰਨੀਆਂ ਉਪਰੋਕਤ ਆਗੂਆਂ ਦੀ ਨਿੱਜੀ ਜਿ਼ੰਦਗੀ ਹੈ ਜਿਸ ਦਾ ਸਿੱਖ ਧਰਮ ਨਾਲ ਕੋਈ ਸਬੰਧ ਨਹੀਂ ਪਰ ਇਹਨਾਂ ਆਗੂਆਂ ਨੂੰ ਅਜਿਹੀਆਂ ਨਾਚ ਭੰਗੜੇ ਦੀਆਂ ਵੀਡੀਉਜ ਆਪਣੇ ਨਿੱਜੀ ਸ਼ੋਸ਼ਲ ਮੀਡੀਆ ਤੇ ਨਹੀਂ ਪਾਉਣੀਆਂ ਚਾਹੀਦੀਆਂ।

ਕੇਂਦਰੀ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਸਿੰਘ ਸਭਾ ਮੱਧ ਪ੍ਰਦੇਸ਼ ਦੇ ਮੌਜੂਦਾ ਪ੍ਰਧਾਨ ਮੌਨੂ ਭਾਟੀਆ ਜੋ ਖਾਲਸਾ ਕਾਲਜ ਬੰਬਈ ਅਤੇ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗ੍ਰੰਥ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਯੂਨੀਵਰਸਿਟੀ ਫਤਿਹਗੜ੍ਹ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਗਵਰਨਿੰਗ ਬਾਡੀ ਮੈਂਬਰ ਵੀ ਹਨ ਅਤੇ ਜੋ ਗੋਆ ਪਿਕਨਿਕ ਮਨਾਉਣ ਗਏ ੮੧ ਵਿਅਕਤੀਆਂ ਵਿੱਚ ਸ਼ਾਮਲ ਹਨ ਨੇ ਦੱਸਿਆ ਕਿ ਉਹਨਾਂ ਦਾ ਇੰਦੌਰ ਵਿੱਚ ਇੱਕ ਵੱਡਾ ਸਿੱਖ ਗਰੁੱਪ ਹੈ ਤੇ ਉਹ ਅਕਸਰ ਸਾਲ ਵਿੱਚ ੨/੩ ਵਾਰ ਇੱਕਠੇ ਹੋ ਕੇ ਘੁੰਮਣ ਫਿਰਨ ਲਈ ਜਾਂਦੇ ਹਨ। ਗੋਆ ਵਿੱਚ ਵੀ ਉਹ ਇੱਕ ਕਰੂਜ਼ ਤੇ ਸਮੁੰਦਰ ਵਿੱਚ ਘੁੰਮ ਰਹੇ ਸਨ ਜਦੋਂ ਉਹਨਾਂ ਤੇ ਸਾਥੀਆਂ ਨੇ ਮਨੌਰੰਜਨ ਕਰਨ ਲਈ ਕਰੂਜ਼ ਤੇ ਭੰਗੜਾ ਪਾਇਆ,ਇਸ ਵਿੱਚ ਉਹਨਾਂ ਨੇ ਕੁੱਝ ਵੀ ਗਲਤ ਨਹੀਂ ਕੀਤਾ।

ਸੋ ਇਸ ਸਮੇਂ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਅਕਾਲ ਤਖਤ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਜਥੇਦਾਰ ਤੇ ਹੋਰ ਸਿੱਖ ਜਥੇਬੰਦੀਆਂ ਸਿੰਘ ਸਭਾਵਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਚਾਹੀਦਾ ਹੈ ਕਿ ਅਜਿਹੇ ਰੰਗੀਨ ਮਿਜਾਜ ਅਖੌਤੀ ਸਿੱਖਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਕੇਂਦਰੀ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਸਿੰਘ ਸਭਾ ਤੇ ਹੋਰ ਗੁਰਦੁਆਰਾ ਪ੍ਰਬੰਧਕ ਕਮੇਟੀਆਂ ਦੇ ਅਹੁਦੇਦਾਰਾਂ ਵਿਰੁੱਧ ਸਖ਼ਤ ਕਾਰਵਾਈ ਕਰਨੀ ਚਾਹੀਦੀ ਹੈ। ਇੰਦੌਰ ਮੱਧ ਪ੍ਰਦੇਸ਼ ਦੀਆਂ ਦੀਆਂ ਜਾਗਰੂਕ ਕੁੱਝ ਸਿੱਖਾਂ ਨੇ ਆਪਣਾ ਨਾਮ ਨਾ ਛਾਪਣ ਦੀ ਸ਼ਰਤ ਤੇ ਦੱਸਿਆ ਕਿ ਉਹ ਇਹਨਾਂ ਅਖੌਤੀ ਆਗੂਆਂ ਤੋਂ ਆਪਣੀਆਂ ਸੰਸਥਾਵਾਂ ਅਜ਼ਾਦ ਕਰਾਉਣਾ ਚਾਹੁੰਦੇ ਹਨ ਪਰ ਇਹਨਾਂ ਆਗੂਆਂ ਦੇ ਭਾਜਪਾ ਤੇ ਸੰਘ ਨਾਲ ਡੂੰਘੇ ਸਬੰਧਾਂ ਕਾਰਨ ਨਿੱਜੀ ਨੁਕਸਾਨ ਤੋਂ ਬਚਾਅ ਲਈ ਅਸਮਰੱਥ ਹਨ।

DAULATPURA, PUNJAB – Bhai Amritpal Singh’s associate, Bhai Basant Singh Khalsa, also imprisoned in Dibrugarh, Assam, was granted a seven-day parole by the courts following the death of his mother, Mata Kulwant Kaur. Under tight security arrangements, Bhai Basant Singh was brought to his native village, Daulatpura, where he performed the final rites of his mother and paid his last respects.

The antim-sanskar ceremony was attended by numerous Sikh leaders and personalities, including Bhai Tarsem Singh, father of MP Bhai Amritpal Singh from Khadoor Sahib, and Bibi Sandeep Kaur, wife of MP Sarabjit Singh Khalsa from Faridkot Lok Sabha constituency. They joined Bhai Basant Singh in offering a heartfelt farewell to Mata Kulwant Kaur.

Expressions of Gratitude and Concerns

Speaking to the media, Tarsem Singh expressed gratitude to the administration for facilitating Bhai Basant Singh’s presence at the funeral. Reflecting on the day Mata Kulwant Kaur passed away, he shared that he was visiting Amritpal Singh and others in Dibrugarh Jail at the time. He stated that all the Singhs are in high spirits in Dibrugarh prison.

Sandeep Kaur, wife of MP Sarabjit Singh Khalsa, highlighted the harsh political environment that has led to the incarceration of individuals like Bhai Basant Singh under the National Security Act (NSA). She remarked, “These Singhs are being punished for their efforts to eradicate drug addiction and promote Amrit Sanchar. She also criticized the lack of discussion in Parliament about the release of Sikh prisoners under NSA, stating that attempts to raise such issues are being dismissed as “sensitive matters.”

Tight Security Measures

While the ceremony witnessed significant participation from Sikh leaders and organizations, the strict security measures in place prevented a larger number of devotees from approaching Bhai Basant Singh to share their condolences. Many complained that this restriction as an impediment to expressing collective grief and support for the family.

Shiromani Committee Criticized for Aligning with Anti-Panthic Badals

JALANDHAR, PUNJAB – Prominent Sikh organizations convened a press conference today at the Jalandhar Press Club, issuing strong statements against Sukhbir Badal while calling for Bhai Narain Singh Choura to be honored as a “Panthic Warrior.”

Leaders, including Bhai Manjit Singh Kartarpur, Bhai Noblejeet Singh, Bhai Ranjit Singh (President of Sikh Youth Federation Bhindranwala), Bhai Harjinder Singh (Neeliya Fauj), Bhai Sukhjeet Singh Khosa (Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Committee), Bhai Pal Singh France (National Justice Front), Bhai Sukhdev Singh (United Sikhs Organization), and others, criticized the Shiromani Committee for allegedly prioritizing loyalty to the Badal family over Panthic principles.

The organizations accused the committee of undermining Panthic values by pressuring the Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Giani Raghbir Singh, to excommunicate Bhai Narain Singh Choura—a move they warned would not be tolerated by the Sikh community.

Accusations Against the Badals
The leaders highlighted past incidents under the Badal family’s rule, including desecration of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib, shielding of culprits, promotion of controversial police officers, and pardoning of the Sirsa dera chief. They questioned why the Shiromani Committee remained silent during these violations and failed to call for the excommunication of Parkash and Sukhbir Badal.

Recognition for Bhai Narain Singh Choura

Citing Bhai Narain Singh Choura’s lifelong dedication to Sikhism, including his sacrifices and activism, the leaders called for him to be celebrated rather than condemned. They described his actions as efforts to bring justice against Sukhbir Badal, whom they labeled a Panthic traitor and offender.

Warning to Jathedars

The organizations issued a stern warning to Jathedars, cautioning that any attempt to excommunicate Bhai Narain Singh Choura would result in a loss of credibility, likening such actions to past controversial decisions that faced widespread rejection from the Sikh community.

Leniency for Sukhbir Badal Criticized

The leaders also expressed frustration with what they described as undue leniency toward Sukhbir Badal, who confessed to major offenses at Sri Akal Takht Sahib but was only lightly reprimanded. They argued that such actions disregard the sentiments of the Sikh Panth and embolden those undermining its principles.  The organizations called for immediate action to address the grievances of the Panth and ensure that justice is served, both for its defenders and against its offenders.

Dal Khalsa Criticizes Shiromani Committee Leadership

During a press conference, senior leaders Harpal Singh Cheema, Paramjit Singh Mand, Kanwarpal Singh, Harcharan Singh Dhami, and Paramjit Singh Tanda highlighted historical instances where individuals who had attacked prominent Sikh leaders were never ostracized from the Panth. The leaders drew parallels with the current controversy, arguing that Bhai Choura’s actions, motivated by grievances against Sukhbir Badal, do not warrant excommunication.

Bhai Choura’s Legacy Defended

Dal Khalsa leaders emphasized Bhai Choura’s lifelong dedication to the Sikh cause, describing him as a steadfast advocate for the Panth’s principles. Active since the Dharam Yudh Morcha of 1982, Bhai Choura has endured police torture and lengthy imprisonment for his beliefs. His popularity and ideological commitment, they argued, make the proposal for his excommunication baseless and damaging.

Historical Context on Violence at Sikh Institutions

The leaders recalled how, in 1983, DIG Avtar Singh Atwal was killed near Darbar Sahib by an associate of Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. Despite the gravity of the incident, the attacker was later martyred during Operation Blue Star and remains honored in the Sikh community. This historical precedent, they argued, highlights the selective nature of the current proposal against Bhai Choura.

Appeal to Jathedars

The leaders urged the Akal Takht Jathedars not to succumb to political pressures, warning that any decision to expel Bhai Choura would harm their credibility and the goodwill they recently regained through other decisions.

The event concluded with Dal Khalsa and its allies calling for unity within the Sikh community, urging a focus on addressing genuine grievances rather than fueling internal conflicts for political gain.

Reaction from MP Bhai Sarabjit Singh Khalsa

Faridkot MP Bhai Sarabjit Singh Khalsa, in a statement on social media, condemned the SGPC’s decision, calling it an affront to Sikh sentiments and a failure of intellectual maturity.

Khalsa has urged SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami and Executive Committee members to revoke the decision and issue an apology.

Khalsa emphasized that the Sikh leadership must introspect and take responsibility for creating such situations, asserting that the expulsion of Choura alone will not suffice to address the larger issues plaguing Panthic institutions. He urged the SGPC to focus on upholding justice and safeguarding Sikh values while reflecting on the underlying causes of such controversies.

Contributions from various sources, including Dal Khalsa, Sikh Youth Federation Bhindranwale, and Rozana Pehredar

BRAMPTON, ONTARIO – The World Sikh Organization of Canada (WSO) strongly condemned the violence perpetrated by pro-India mobs in Brampton on November 4th.  WSO extend ed their gratitude to the Peel Regional Police for their swift actions, which prevented the mobs from reaching and attacking local gurdwaras.

Last night, several hundred pro-India protesters gathered on the grounds of the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton. Individuals within the crowd were recorded giving hateful speeches, inciting Indians to attack Sikh religious sites. The demonstrators later moved onto the streets, obstructing traffic and attempting to march toward nearby gurdwaras. Peel Regional Police effectively intervened, blocking the march to prevent an escalation. Following these instigations, protesters vandalized Sikh-owned vehicles and hurled profanities at Peel Police officers.

In response, members of the Sikh community convened at local gurdwaras, with support from the police, to protect their congregations and buildings. Later that evening, Peel Police declared the protest an unlawful assembly and ordered the pro-India crowd to disperse or face arrests after weapons were spotted amongst the demonstrators.

This violence follows an earlier incident on Sunday, where Sikh protesters at the Hindu Sabha Mandir protesting against a consular event hosted by the Consul General of India were attacked, resulting in a violent altercation. Later that same day, hate speeches were given outside the Hindu Sabha Mandir by pro-India protestors calling for violence against Sikhs. Sri Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara in Malton was subsequently swarmed that night but the attack was repelled by Peel Police.

On October 15, the RCMP reported evidence indicating that “Indian diplomats and consular officials based in Canada leveraged their official positions to engage in clandestine activities, such as collecting information for the Government of India, either directly or through proxies or coerced individuals.”

There are growing concerns that these events may be part of a larger effort to sow division and incite unrest in Canada. The RCMP has raised alarms about India’s efforts to create a “perception of an unsafe environment” within Canada, a tactic seemingly mirrored in recent disinformation spread by Indian media. Indian media have spread disinformation that the Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was involved in orchestrating the protest against Indian diplomats on Sunday and police attacking the Hindu community.

Dr. Jaspreet Kaur, WSO Ontario President, stated,

“What occurred last night was deeply troubling and rooted in deliberate incitement. Multiple speeches delivered outside the Hindu Sabha Mandir on Sunday night incited violence against Sikhs. The attempted swarming of Sri Guru Singh Sabha Malton by several hundred pro-India aggressors on Sunday night appears to have been just the beginning. Were it not for Peel Police’s intervention, further attacks on gurdwaras would likely have taken place last night.

We urge law enforcement to ensure that those involved in violence or incitement are arrested and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. We encourage the Sikh community to remain vigilant, as reports indicate the potential for additional pro-India protests tonight. The violence and unrest witnessed in Brampton over the past two days are unacceptable. We are seeing an alarming rise in disinformation from India, trying to provoke further violence – this cannot be allowed to happen. Cooler heads must prevail, and we call for peace and mutual respect.”

The World Sikh Organization of Canada (WSO) is a non-profit organization with a mandate to promote and protect the interests of Canadian Sikhs, as well as to promote and advocate for the protection of human rights of all individuals. 

rsOTTAWA, CANADA – The stunning election victory of Bhai Amritpal Singh of the Waris Punjab De (WPD) organization has shattered the Indian narrative that support for Khalistan does not exist in Punjab.

Bhai Amritpal Singh has been elected as an independent MP from the Khadoor Sahib constituency, despite contesting the election from Dibrugarh Jail in Assam, where he is currently detained under the National Security Act. Bhai Amritpal Singh won the election with 404,430 votes—the largest margin of any candidate in Punjab, beating his closest rival by 197,120 votes.

Bhai Amritpal Singh was arrested by Indian police in April 2023 after a month-long security crackdown in Punjab, which included the suspension of internet services across the state and the detention of hundreds of Sikh youth. He came to prominence in Punjab with his successful campaign to inspire Punjabi youth to reject drugs and embrace the Sikh faith. Amritpal Singh has also been open and unapologetic in his support for Khalistan, a sovereign Sikh state, as well as highlighting discrimination against Sikhs in India.

Another independent candidate to win in Punjab was Sarabjeet Singh Khalsa, who secured 298,062 votes in the Faridkot constituency. He also contested the elections on a platform of Sikh sovereignty and human rights.

The ruling BJP did not win a single seat in Punjab and has lost its majority in the Lok Sabha.

The Indian election results also have an impact in Canada in the aftermath of the assassination of Bhai Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June 2023. In September 2023, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau rose in the House of Commons to accuse India of being behind the assassination plot. During the election campaign, Modi and his Defence Minister Rajnath Singh publicly boasted that India is assassinating its opponents “in their homes,” even by crossing borders.

WSO President Danish Singh said:

“Today’s landslide election victory for Bhai Amritpal Singh has shattered the Indian narrative that Khalistan has no support within Punjab. Bhai Amritpal Singh secured the largest victory amongst all the seats in Punjab despite being detained in an Assam jail, three thousand kilometers away and not being able to campaign. These results make it clear that Khalistan has strong grassroots support in Punjab, despite people’s fear of Indian retribution for openly expressing their support. Given that India has shown no qualms in murdering Sikh activists, even in foreign countries, we request that Canada and other Western democratic countries call on India to ensure that Bhai Amritpal Singh is immediately released and no harm comes to him.”

The World Sikh Organization of Canada (WSO) is a non-profit organization with a mandate to promote and protect the interests of Canadian Sikhs, as well as to promote and advocate for the protection of human rights of all individuals. 

Editor’s Note: Updated/corrected vote counts based on results.eci.gov.in – as of 6/5/2024.