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.

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

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman David G. Valadao (CA-22), co-chair of the Sikh American Congressional Caucus, introduced a resolution to formally recognize and commemorate the Sikh Genocide of 1984. California is home to the largest Sikh population in the U.S., with the majority residing in the Central Valley.

“Sadly, many Sikhs have been targeted for their religious beliefs throughout history, including during the 1984 genocide,” said Congressman Valadao. “The Central Valley is home to a vibrant Sikh community and I’m proud to stand with them in demanding recognition and accountability for this horrific event in their history. This resolution is a small but important step to commemorate this tragedy and honor the innocent victims who lost their lives while practicing their faith.”

“As we mark the 40th anniversary of the Sikh Genocide, we remember a dark chapter in history that inflicted pain on Sikh families and communities. This is not just a distant tragedy—it hits home for us here in the San Joaquin Valley, where so many of our Sikh neighbors have shared their stories of loss, survival, and resilience. This resolution is more than a symbol — it’s a time to recognize this horrific time that our Sikh community experienced,” said Congressman Costa.

Reps. Valadao and Costa were joined in introduction by Reps. Josh Harder (CA-09), Vince Fong (CA-20), and John Duarte (CA-13).

The resolution is supported by American Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, American Sikh Caucus Committee, Ensaaf, Jakara Movement, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF), Sikh Coalition, Sikh Coordination Committee East Coast (SCCEC), and the United Sikhs.

“This resolution marks a pivotal moment in our ongoing quest for justice and truth. The American Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, representing Sikh religious institutions across the nation, has long advocated for the recognition of the atrocities committed during the 1984 Sikh Genocide. We thank Congressman Valadao for his courageous leadership and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that the stories of our martyrs are preserved, and that justice is pursued relentlessly,” said Gudev Singh, Acting President, American Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (AGPC).

“This resolution is a turning point in our community’s decades-long pursuit of justice and recognition. For too long, the horrors of 1984 have been hidden from the global stage. Today, we honor the memory of those who suffered and ensure their voices will never be silenced. We extend our deepest gratitude to Congressman David Valadao for his leadership of the American Sikh Congressional Caucus, and in championing this cause, marking a momentous step toward accountability and healing for Sikh Americans and Sikhs worldwide,” said Dr. Pritpal Singh, Founder, American Sikh Caucus Committee.

“This resolution marks a crucial victory in the battle for truth and justice for the victims of the 1984 Sikh Genocide. It stands as a testament to the resilience of our community, which has sought justice for decades. While we still have a long road ahead in terms of accountability, this first step of recognition in the U.S. House of Representatives gives us hope that justice one day will prevail,” said Sukhman Dhami, Co-Director, Ensaaf

“The introduction of this resolution is not just about acknowledging the past but ensuring that future generations understand the truth about the 1984 Sikh Genocide. For Sikh youth and activists, this is more than a political milestone—it’s a validation of the pain our elders endured and a commitment to never allow history to forget. The Jakara Movement looks forward to working alongside Congressman Valadao to continue shining a light on this dark chapter and to ensure that justice for the victims remains a priority for all,” said Naindeep Singh, Executive Director, Jakara Movement.

“This resolution is a historic acknowledgment of the deep scars the Sikh genocide of 1984 has left on our community. It not only honors the memory of those we lost but also empowers Sikh Americans and allies who have been fighting for decades to ensure that these atrocities are not forgotten. We are especially grateful to Congressman David Valadao for his unwavering support and for bringing this issue to the forefront of American consciousness. Today, we see a step toward justice and the validation of our truth,” said Kiran Kaur Gill, Executive Director, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF)

“This is the first time a federal resolution has been introduced to recognize the 1984 Sikh Genocide, and it sends a powerful message: the world is watching, and the atrocities committed against Sikhs will not go unnoticed. We are deeply thankful to Congressman David Valadao for his leadership in this effort, and we look forward to building a broad coalition of support to ensure its ultimate passage. Today’s recognition fuels our resolve to continue advocating for justice and accountability,” said Harman Singh, Executive Director, Sikh Coalition.

“The introduction of this resolution is a significant step forward for Sikhs worldwide, especially for those of us who have been tirelessly advocating for the truth to be recognized. The Sikh Coordination Committee East Coast stands united with our brothers and sisters in the continued pursuit of justice for the victims of 1984. This resolution acknowledges not only our pain but our perseverance, and we are grateful to Congressman Valadao for standing with us in this cause,” said Himmat Singh, Sikh Coordination Committee East Coast (SCCEC).

“As a global humanitarian organization, United Sikhs has long championed the cause of justice and human rights for the Sikh community. The introduction of this resolution in the U.S. Congress is a watershed moment for our community’s struggle for truth and justice. It is an acknowledgment that the international community is listening, and it reinforces our collective resolve to ensure that the horrors of 1984 are neither ignored nor repeated. We extend our deepest gratitude to Congressman Valadao for his leadership and solidarity,” said Hardayal Singh, United Sikhs.

Background:

In June 1984, Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi ordered a military assault on Sri Darbar Sahib, a sacred place of worship more commonly known as The Golden Temple. During Operation Blue Star, the Indian Army used heavy artillery and tanks to lay siege on The Golden Temple complex, murdering thousands of civilians as an attempt to suppress Sikh religious rights and freedoms. This tragedy is considered by many as the beginning of the Sikh Genocide.

Following the death of Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on October 31, 1984, the Indian government launched a multi-day campaign of state-sponsored violence and repression against Sikhs that included disappearances, targeted killings, and coordinated mass violence. Political unrest in India throughout 1984 resulted in the loss of thousands of Sikh lives. Today, transnational repression is still a widespread issue impacting the Sikh community.

Full text of resolution:

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.

OTTAWA, CANADA – The World Sikh Organization of Canada (WSO), in an issued press statement, condemned the mistreatment and unjust detention of Sikh activists in Dibrugarh Jail, Assam.

The ten Sikh detainees, including Bhai Amritpal Singh of the Waris Punjab De (WPD) organization, have endured nearly a year of detention without charges under India’s draconian National Security Act (NSA). The NSA, a colonial-era law, allows Indian authorities to indefinitely detain individuals without charges and transport them to any state in India for imprisonment. The Sikh detainees have now initiated a hunger strike to protest their mistreatment.

Recently, alarming revelations have come to light regarding the conditions within Dibrugarh Jail. The detainees discovered hidden cameras covertly installed in their cells and washrooms. This unacceptable invasion of privacy raises grave concerns about the violation of basic human rights and dignity.

In response to the discovery of the hidden cameras, Bhai Amritpal Singh, the leader of the WPD, has been falsely accused by the jail management of possessing contraband items, including two cell phones, a USB stick, and a “smartwatch.” Bhai Amritpal Singh denies these allegations, asserting that the items were planted in his cell to fabricate incriminating evidence against him.

In a recorded statement released today, Bhai Amritpal Singh revealed that he and his fellow Sikh detainees initiated a hunger strike on February 16th, demanding to be transferred to a prison in Punjab. Bhai Amritpal Singh expressed concerns that the detainees’ food may also be deliberately adulterated and that several of the Sikh detainees are facing health issues.

Bhai Amritpal Singh and the other detainees have not been accused of any serious crime. Their detention appears to target the growing popularity of the WPD’s Khalsa Vahir movement, which was inspiring Punjab’s youth to give up drugs and return to Sikhi.

WSO President, Danish Singh, said today,

“The WSO condemns the appalling treatment of Sikh detainees in Dibrugarh Jail. Bhai Amritpal Singh and the other Sikhs have been arbitrarily detained for almost a year under India’s draconian NSA, thousands of kilometres away from their homes. The discovery of hidden cameras in the detainees’ washrooms and cells is a shocking and unacceptable violation of privacy, reflecting the perverse intentions of the jail authorities.

The Sikh detainees in Dibrugarh are being held without charges for simply advocating for Sikh issues. Their detention is reflective of the Government of India’s discriminatory treatment towards Sikhs and other marginalized communities.

We call for the immediate release of these Sikh detainees. The Government of India must be held accountable and uphold its obligations under international law.”

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. 

USCIRF Deeply Concerned by India’s Transnational Repression Against Religious Minorities. Urges State Department to Make CPC Designation

WASHIGNTON, DC – The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) in a press release stated that it was “alarmed by India’s increased transnational targeting of religious minorities and those advocating on their behalf. Recent efforts by the Indian government to silence activists, journalists, and lawyers abroad pose a serious threat to religious freedom. Due to India’s systematic, ongoing, and egregious violations of freedom of religion or belief, USCIRF implores the U.S. Department of State to designate India a Country of Particular Concern (CPC).”

“The Indian government’s alleged involvement in the killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada and the plot to kill Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in the United States are deeply troubling, and represent a severe escalation of India’s efforts to silence religious minorities and human rights defenders both within its country and abroad,” said USCIRF Commissioner Stephen Schneck.

“We call on the Biden administration to acknowledge the Indian government’s perpetration of particularly severe religious freedom violations and designate it as a country of particular concern (CPC).”

Transnational repression occurs when states use intimidation, harassment, or violence against those living outside their borders. Transnational repression campaigns often target political and human rights activists, journalists, and members of religious and ethnic minority groups. In extreme cases, tactics include detention, reprisals against family members, kidnapping, or, as illustrated by India, assassinations. In November 2023, the U.S. Department of Justice published an indictment alleging the Indian government’s attempt to assassinate a Sikh activist was intended to prompt a series of additional killings in the United States and Canada.

In addition, Indian authorities have used spyware and online harassment campaigns to target and intimidate journalists and activists abroad advocating on behalf of religious minorities. Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s State Visit to the United States in June, comments from the head of India’s Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) information and technology department, Amit Malviya, prompted an online campaign against U.S. Wall Street Journal journalist Sabrina Siddiqui for posing a question about religious freedom conditions in India.

“Within its own borders, Indian authorities have repeatedly used draconian legislation like the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act and anti-conversion laws to systematically crack down on religious minorities, journalists, and activists,” USCIRF Commissioner David Curry. “Extending this repression to target religious minorities from India living abroad, including intimidation tactics against journalists, is especially dangerous and cannot be ignored. We urge the U.S. government to continue its active engagement with senior Indian officials and international partners to ensure religious minorities can live and express themselves without fear of reprisal, whether in India or elsewhere.”

USCIRF has recommended each year since 2020 that the U.S. Department of State designate India as a CPC, most recently in its 2023 Annual Report. USCIRF also published an issue update on India’s state-level anti-conversion laws, providing further context on India’s use of these laws to target religious minorities. In September 2023, USCIRF held a hearing on religious freedom conditions in India and how the U.S. government can work with the Indian government to address violations.

The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) is an independent, bipartisan federal government entity established by the U.S. Congress to monitor, analyze and report on religious freedom abroad. USCIRF makes foreign policy recommendations to the President, the Secretary of State and Congress intended to deter religious persecution and promote freedom of religion or belief.

“Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) is using “Ballot” to liberate Punjab while India is using “Bullets” to stop the ongoing Khalistan Referendum – the motive behind India’s efforts to kill me.” – Gurpatwant Singh Pannu

WASHINGTON, DC (KP) – The Financial Times reported that American authorities foiled a sinister plot by the right-wing Hindu led Indian Government to assassinate an American Sikh lawyer and legal advisor of the Sikhs for Justice, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.

According to the report the US federal prosecutors have filed a “sealed” indictment against at least one suspect at a New York District Court in connection to the plot, another suspect has reportedly absconded from the US – possibly making his way back to India.

In reaction, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the target of the assassination plot stated that Violence begets violence and questioned of Modi Government ready to face consequences for the attempt on his life.

The Sikhs for Justice legal advisor further stated on his X (Twitter.com) post:

“The foiled attempt on my life on American soil by the Indian agents is transnational terrorism which is a threat to the US sovereignty, freedom of speech and democracy, so I will let the U.S. government respond to this threat.”

“Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) is using “Ballot” to liberate Punjab while India is using “Bullets” to stop the ongoing Khalistan Referendum – the motive behind India’s efforts to kill me.”

“India is using mercenaries to kill Pro Khalistan Sikhs hence I dare Modi Government to declare Open Armed Conflict with Punjab and history is a witness that the Sikh sovereigntists will defend with equal force and continue to campaign for liberation of Punjab from the Indian occupation.”

“At this time my focus is not threats to my life but to organize American Phase of Khalistan Referendum scheduled to start from San Francisco CA on January 28, 2024, which Indian government is attempting to block.”

The Financial Times reports comes two months after the Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated in an address to the Canadian Parliament that there were credible allegations linking Indian agents to the murder another Sikh activist, Bhai Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June. Nijjar was gunned down in a Sikh Gurdwara complex parking lot in Surrey, BC by unknown assailants, who were reportedly on hire by the Indian authorities.

At that time, India vehemently rejected Canada’s accusations and expelled several members of the Canadian embassy staff. Meanwhile the Indian lap-dog media, known as “Godi media,” openly ridiculed Trudeau’s assertions and egged the Indian to “attack” Canada with “missiles and bombs” for even bringing up the issue of the assassination of the Canadian Sikh activist.

Ironically, both the Indian Government and the “godi” lap-dog media are totally silent after the assertions by the United States authorities have surfaced after the Financial Times report.

It should be noted that both Pannun and Nijjar spearheaded the Sikhs For Justice referendum on the creation of an independent Sikh state in which over 300,000 in support ballots were registered by the Canadian Sikh diaspora in 2023.

In related news the Intercept News published report Secret Intelligence Documents Show Global Reach of India’s Death Squads states that “The Indian Government’s intelligence agency, the Research and Analysis Wing, or RAW, has been planning assassinations targeting Sikh and Kashmiri activists living in foreign countries.”