On September 20, 2024, senior US officials convened with Sikh advocates to address ongoing threats facing the Sikh community in the United States. This meeting, organized by the National Security Council, took place just two days before a scheduled encounter between President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India.
The discussions centered on a foiled murder plot against Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a dual US-Canadian citizen and prominent Sikh activist. US authorities have been urging India to investigate this incident while conducting their own criminal probe into potential Indian involvement.
The Sikh community, which boasts over 30 million adherents worldwide, has a significant diaspora in countries like the US, Canada, and the UK. Sikhism, founded by Guru Nanak Dev in the 15th century, promotes equality and rejects discrimination based on caste, creed, or gender.
During the closed-door meeting, US officials provided updates on efforts to protect Americans from "transnational repression" - actions by foreign governments to harass or harm individuals abroad. They also informed attendees about initiatives to educate local law enforcement on potential threats and encouraged Sikhs to report any harassment.
Pritpal Singh, founder of the American Sikh Caucus Committee, expressed gratitude for the government's vigilance in protecting Sikh Americans. He stated, "We asked them to do more and we will hold them to their assurances that they will."
The meeting occurs against a backdrop of diplomatic tensions. In September 2023, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged that Indian intelligence was involved in the June 2023 killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian Sikh separatist advocating for "Khalistan" - an independent Sikh state in northern India.
"Our intelligence agency has pursued credible allegations that Modi's government was behind the June 2023 killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian Sikh separatist."
Two months later, the US Justice Department charged Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national, with attempting to arrange Pannun's murder at the behest of an unnamed Indian intelligence official. Gupta has pleaded not guilty and awaits trial in New York City.
These incidents have raised concerns about the safety of Sikh activists in North America. Many, including elected officials, report ongoing threats and harassment. The FBI and Canadian Royal Mounted Police have privately warned at least seven Sikh activists about potential dangers to their lives.
As the US continues to push for investigations into these incidents, it must balance its concerns with the strategic importance of its relationship with India. The upcoming meeting between Biden and Modi, set against the backdrop of a joint meeting with Japan and Australia, underscores the complex diplomatic landscape.
The Sikh community, known for its distinctive appearance and commitment to "Sewa" (selfless service), continues to navigate these challenges. With its rich history and traditions, including the concept of Khalsa formed in 1699 by Guru Gobind Singh, Sikhism remains a vibrant and influential faith worldwide.
As these events unfold, the international community watches closely, recognizing the delicate balance between addressing human rights concerns and maintaining crucial diplomatic relationships in an ever-changing global landscape.