ਪ੍ਰੈਸ ਰਿਲੀਸ – ਮਿਤੀ: 15 ਜੁਲਾਈ 2026    (ਸਮੂਹ ਸਿੱਖ ਸੰਗਤ ਲੋਅਰ ਮੇਨ ਲੈਂਡ – ਸਰੀ, ਬ੍ਰਿਟਿਸ਼ ਕੋਲੰਬੀਆ)

ਅੱਜ ਗੁਰੂ ਨਾਨਕ ਸਿੱਖ ਗੁਰਦੁਆਰਾ ਸਾਹਿਬ, ਸਰੀ–ਡੈਲਟਾ ਵਿਖੇ ਸਥਿਤ ਸ਼ਹੀਦ ਭਾਈ ਹਰਦੀਪ ਸਿੰਘ ਨਿੱਝਰ ਜੀ ਯਾਦਗਾਰੀ ਇਮਾਰਤ ਵਿੱਚ ਧੰਨ ਧੰਨ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗ੍ਰੰਥ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਦੇ 225 ਪਾਵਨ ਸਰੂਪਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਸਮੁੰਦਰੀ ਜਹਾਜ਼ ਰਾਹੀਂ ਕਾਰਗੋ ਕੰਟੇਨਰ ਵਿੱਚ ਕੈਨੇਡਾ ਲਿਆਉਣ, ਪਾਲਕੀ ਬੱਸ ਰਾਹੀਂ ਅੱਗੇ ਲਿਜਾਣ ਅਤੇ ਉਨ੍ਹਾਂ ਦੀ ਸੰਭਾਲ ਨਾਲ ਜੁੜੇ ਗੰਭੀਰ ਮਸਲਿਆਂ ਸਬੰਧੀ ਇੱਕ ਮਹੱਤਵਪੂਰਨ ਪ੍ਰੈਸ ਕਾਨਫਰੰਸ ਕੀਤੀ ਗਈ।

ਪ੍ਰੈਸ ਕਾਨਫਰੰਸ ਦੌਰਾਨ ਸੰਗਤ ਵੱਲੋਂ ਸਪੱਸ਼ਟ ਕੀਤਾ ਗਿਆ ਕਿ ਇਹ ਮਸਲਾ ਕਿਸੇ ਵਿਅਕਤੀ ਜਾਂ ਸੰਸਥਾ ਦੇ ਵਿਰੁੱਧ ਨਹੀਂ, ਸਗੋਂ ਧੰਨ ਧੰਨ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗ੍ਰੰਥ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਸਤਿਕਾਰ, ਗੁਰਮਤਿ ਮਰਿਆਦਾ ਅਤੇ ਪੰਥਕ ਸਿਧਾਂਤਾਂ ਦੀ ਰੱਖਿਆ ਨਾਲ ਸਬੰਧਿਤ ਹੈ।

ਪ੍ਰੈਸ ਕਾਨਫਰੰਸ ਦੌਰਾਨ ਹੇਠ ਲਿਖੇ ਮੁੱਖ ਨੁਕਤੇ ਰੱਖੇ ਗਏ:

1. ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗ੍ਰੰਥ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਪਾਵਨ ਸਰੂਪਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਸਮੁੰਦਰੀ ਜਹਾਜ਼ਾਂ, ਕਾਰਗੋ ਕੰਟੇਨਰਾਂ, ਪਾਲਕੀ ਬੱਸਾਂ ਜਾਂ ਹੋਰ ਵਪਾਰਕ ਮਾਲ ਢੋਣ ਵਾਲੇ ਸਾਧਨਾਂ ਰਾਹੀਂ ਭੇਜਣ ਦੀ ਪ੍ਰਥਾ ਤੁਰੰਤ ਬੰਦ ਕੀਤੀ ਜਾਵੇ।

2. ਸ੍ਰੀ ਅਕਾਲ ਤਖ਼ਤ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਵੱਲੋਂ ਸਪੱਸ਼ਟ ਹੁਕਮਨਾਮਾ ਜਾਰੀ ਕਰਕੇ ਇਹ ਯਕੀਨੀ ਬਣਾਇਆ ਜਾਵੇ ਕਿ ਵਿਦੇਸ਼ਾਂ ਵਿੱਚ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗ੍ਰੰਥ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਪਾਵਨ ਸਰੂਪ ਕੇਵਲ ਹਵਾਈ ਮਾਰਗ ਰਾਹੀਂ ਅਤੇ ਪੂਰੀ ਗੁਰਮਤਿ ਮਰਿਆਦਾ ਅਨੁਸਾਰ ਹੀ ਭੇਜੇ ਜਾਣ।

3. ਸਾਲ 2014 ਤੋਂ ਲੋਅਰ ਮੇਨਲੈਂਡ ਦੀ ਸੰਗਤ ਵੱਲੋਂ ਪਾਵਨ ਸਰੂਪਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਸਮੁੰਦਰੀ ਰਸਤੇ ਭੇਜਣ ਦਾ ਲਗਾਤਾਰ ਵਿਰੋਧ ਕੀਤਾ ਜਾਂਦਾ ਰਿਹਾ ਹੈ। ਇਸ ਸੰਗਤੀ ਭਾਵਨਾ ਅਤੇ ਫ਼ੈਸਲੇ ਦਾ ਸਤਿਕਾਰ ਕੀਤਾ ਜਾਣਾ ਚਾਹੀਦਾ ਹੈ।

4 ਜਿਨ੍ਹਾਂ ਸੰਸਥਾਵਾਂ ਜਾਂ ਪਰਿਵਾਰਾਂ ਵੱਲੋਂ ਪਾਵਨ ਸਰੂਪਾਂ ਦੀ ਮੰਗ ਕੀਤੀ ਗਈ ਹੈ, ਉਨ੍ਹਾਂ ਦੇ ਨਾਮ, ਪਤੇ ਅਤੇ ਗੁਰੂ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਦੇ ਸਰੂਪ ਦੀ ਮਰਿਆਦਾ ਅਨੁਸਾਰ ਸੇਵਾ-ਸੰਭਾਲ ਕਰਨ ਦੀ ਯੋਗਤਾ ਸਬੰਧੀ ਪੂਰਾ ਰਿਕਾਰਡ ਰੱਖਿਆ ਜਾਵੇ।

5. ਇਹ ਦਲੀਲ ਕਿ ਪਾਵਨ ਸਰੂਪਾਂ ਦੀ “ਮੰਗ ਬਹੁਤ ਹੈ”, ਤੱਥਾਂ ਅਤੇ ਪ੍ਰਮਾਣਾਂ ਨਾਲ ਸਾਬਤ ਕੀਤੀ ਜਾਵੇ। ਲੋਅਰ ਮੇਨਲੈਂਡ ਦੇ ਕਈ ਗੁਰਦੁਆਰਾ ਸਾਹਿਬਾਨ ਅਨੁਸਾਰ ਅਜਿਹੇ ਮਾਮਲੇ ਵੀ ਸਾਹਮਣੇ ਆ ਰਹੇ ਹਨ, ਜਿੱਥੇ ਮਰਿਆਦਾ ਅਨੁਸਾਰ ਸੇਵਾ-ਸੰਭਾਲ ਸੰਭਵ ਨਾ ਹੋਣ ਕਾਰਨ ਸਰੂਪ ਵਾਪਸ ਕੀਤੇ ਜਾ ਰਹੇ ਹਨ।

6 ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗ੍ਰੰਥ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਪਾਵਨ ਸਰੂਪਾਂ ਦੀ ਛਪਾਈ, ਆਵਾਜਾਈ, ਸੇਵਾ-ਸੰਭਾਲ ਅਤੇ ਅੱਗੇ ਸੌਂਪਣ ਦੀ ਪ੍ਰਕਿਰਿਆ ਲਈ ਵਿਸਥਾਰਪੂਰਵਕ ਵਿਸ਼ਵ ਪੱਧਰੀ ਗੁਰਮਤਿ ਮਰਿਆਦਾ ਅਤੇ ਦਿਸ਼ਾ-ਨਿਰਦੇਸ਼ ਜਾਰੀ ਕੀਤੇ ਜਾਣ।

7. ਇਸ ਮਾਮਲੇ ਨਾਲ ਸਬੰਧਿਤ ਸਾਰੀਆਂ ਘਟਨਾਵਾਂ ਅਤੇ ਫ਼ੈਸਲਿਆਂ ਦੀ ਨਿਰਪੱਖ ਅਤੇ ਪਾਰਦਰਸ਼ੀ ਜਾਂਚ ਕਰਕੇ ਜ਼ਿੰਮੇਵਾਰ ਵਿਅਕਤੀਆਂ ਅਤੇ ਸੰਸਥਾਵਾਂ ਦੀ ਜਵਾਬਦੇਹੀ ਨਿਰਧਾਰਤ ਕੀਤੀ ਜਾਵੇ।

8 ਲੋਅਰ ਮੇਨਲੈਂਡ ਦੀ ਸੰਗਤ ਵਿਦੇਸ਼ਾਂ ਵਿੱਚ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗ੍ਰੰਥ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਪਾਵਨ ਸਰੂਪਾਂ ਦੀ ਛਪਾਈ ਲਈ ਪ੍ਰਿੰਟਿੰਗ ਪ੍ਰੈੱਸ ਸਥਾਪਿਤ ਕਰਨ ਦਾ ਵਿਰੋਧ ਕਰਦੀ ਹੈ।

9. ਸੰਗਤਾਂ ਦੀ ਸਹੂਲਤ ਲਈ StandForSatkar.org ਨਾਮ ਦੀ ਇੱਕ ਵੈੱਬਸਾਈਟ ਬਣਾਈ ਗਈ ਹੈ। ਇਸ ਵੈੱਬਸਾਈਟ ਰਾਹੀਂ ਦੁਨੀਆ ਭਰ ਦੀਆਂ ਸੰਗਤਾਂ ਬਹੁਤ ਹੀ ਆਸਾਨੀ ਨਾਲ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਅਕਾਲ ਤਖ਼ਤ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਅਤੇ ਸ਼੍ਰੋਮਣੀ ਗੁਰਦੁਆਰਾ ਪ੍ਰਬੰਧਕ ਕਮੇਟੀ ਨੂੰ ਇੱਕ ਈਮੇਲ ਭੇਜ ਸਕਦੀਆਂ ਹਨ, ਜਿਸ ਵਿੱਚ ਲਿਖਿਆ ਹੋਵੇਗਾ ਕਿ ਸੰਗਤਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗ੍ਰੰਥ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਪਾਵਨ ਸਰੂਪਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਸਮੁੰਦਰੀ ਜਹਾਜ਼ ਜਾਂ ਹੋਰ ਵਪਾਰਕ ਕਾਰਗੋ ਸ਼ਿਪਿੰਗ ਰਾਹੀਂ ਵਿਦੇਸ਼ਾਂ ਵਿੱਚ ਭੇਜਣ ਦਾ ਤਰੀਕਾ ਮਨਜ਼ੂਰ ਨਹੀਂ ਹੈ। ਸੰਗਤਾਂ ਦੀ ਬੇਨਤੀ ਹੈ ਕਿ ਇਸ ਪ੍ਰਥਾ ਨੂੰ ਤੁਰੰਤ ਬੰਦ ਕੀਤਾ ਜਾਵੇ ਅਤੇ ਭਵਿੱਖ ਵਿੱਚ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗ੍ਰੰਥ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਪਾਵਨ ਸਰੂਪਾਂ ਦੀ ਆਵਾਜਾਈ ਸਿਰਫ਼ ਪੂਰੇ ਸਤਿਕਾਰ, ਮਰਿਆਦਾ ਅਤੇ ਪੰਥਕ ਪਰੰਪਰਾਵਾਂ ਅਨੁਸਾਰ ਹਵਾਈ ਜਹਾਜ਼ ਰਾਹੀਂ ਹੀ ਕੀਤੀ ਜਾਵੇ।

ਪ੍ਰੈਸ ਕਾਨਫਰੰਸ ਵਿੱਚ ਇਹ ਵੀ ਕਿਹਾ ਗਿਆ ਕਿ ਸੰਗਤ ਇਸ ਮਾਮਲੇ ਨੂੰ ਪੂਰੀ ਸ਼ਾਂਤੀ, ਸੰਜਮ ਅਤੇ ਗੁਰੂ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਦੇ ਸਤਿਕਾਰ ਨੂੰ ਮੁੱਖ ਰੱਖਦਿਆਂ ਅੱਗੇ ਵਧਾ ਰਹੀ ਹੈ। ਸੰਗਤ ਦਾ ਉਦੇਸ਼ ਕਿਸੇ ਨਾਲ ਟਕਰਾਅ ਪੈਦਾ ਕਰਨਾ ਨਹੀਂ, ਸਗੋਂ ਭਵਿੱਖ ਵਿੱਚ ਅਜਿਹੀਆਂ ਘਟਨਾਵਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਰੋਕਣਾ ਅਤੇ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗ੍ਰੰਥ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਪਾਵਨ ਸਰੂਪਾਂ ਦੀ ਉੱਚੀ-ਸੁੱਚੀ ਮਰਿਆਦਾ ਨੂੰ ਯਕੀਨੀ ਬਣਾਉਣਾ ਹੈ।

ਸੰਗਤ ਨੇ ਇਹ ਵੀ ਸਪੱਸ਼ਟ ਕੀਤਾ ਕਿ ਸ਼੍ਰੋਮਣੀ ਗੁਰਦੁਆਰਾ ਪ੍ਰਬੰਧਕ ਕਮੇਟੀ ਦੇ ਸਕੱਤਰ ਅਤੇ ਸ਼੍ਰੋਮਣੀ ਕਮੇਟੀ ਵੱਲੋਂ ਭੇਜੇ ਗਏ ਨੁਮਾਇੰਦੇ ਵਾਰ-ਵਾਰ ਇਹ ਬਿਆਨ ਦੇ ਰਹੇ ਹਨ ਕਿ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗ੍ਰੰਥ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਪਾਵਨ ਸਰੂਪਾਂ ਨਾਲ ਕਿਸੇ ਵੀ ਤਰ੍ਹਾਂ ਦੀ ਬੇਅਦਬੀ ਨਹੀਂ ਹੋਈ ਅਤੇ ਸਾਰੇ ਸਰੂਪ ਪੂਰੀ ਮਰਿਆਦਾ ਨਾਲ ਸੁਰੱਖਿਅਤ ਪਹੁੰਚੇ ਹਨ।

ਸੰਗਤ ਦਾ ਕਹਿਣਾ ਹੈ ਕਿ ਸਤਿਕਾਰ ਅਤੇ ਮਰਿਆਦਾ ਦਾ ਜੋ ਮਿਆਰ ਇਨ੍ਹਾਂ ਬਿਆਨਾਂ ਰਾਹੀਂ ਪੇਸ਼ ਕੀਤਾ ਜਾ ਰਿਹਾ ਹੈ, ਉਹ ਲੋਅਰ ਮੇਨਲੈਂਡ ਦੀ ਸੰਗਤ ਨੂੰ ਪ੍ਰਵਾਨ ਨਹੀਂ ਹੈ।

ਸਾਡਾ ਉਦੇਸ਼ ਕਿਸੇ ਵਿਅਕਤੀ ਜਾਂ ਸੰਸਥਾ ਨਾਲ ਟਕਰਾਅ ਪੈਦਾ ਕਰਨਾ ਨਹੀਂ ਹੈ ਅਤੇ ਨਾ ਹੀ ਅਸੀਂ ਸੰਗਤ ਵਿੱਚ ਕਿਸੇ ਕਿਸਮ ਦੀ ਦੁਬਿਧਾ ਪੈਦਾ ਕਰਨਾ ਚਾਹੁੰਦੇ ਹਾਂ। ਸਾਡੀ ਨਿਮਰ ਬੇਨਤੀ ਕੇਵਲ ਇਹ ਹੈ ਕਿ ਧੰਨ ਧੰਨ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗ੍ਰੰਥ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਸਤਿਕਾਰ ਅਤੇ ਮਰਿਆਦਾ ਦੇ ਪੱਧਰ ਨੂੰ ਹੋਰ ਉੱਚਾ ਕੀਤਾ ਜਾਵੇ। ਸਤਿਕਾਰ ਅਤੇ ਮਰਿਆਦਾ ਦਾ ਜੋ ਮਿਆਰ ਇਸ ਵੇਲੇ ਪੇਸ਼ ਕੀਤਾ ਜਾ ਰਿਹਾ ਹੈ, ਉਹ ਸਾਨੂੰ ਪ੍ਰਵਾਨ ਨਹੀਂ ਹੈ।

ਅਸੀਂ ਹਰ ਸਿੱਖ ਨੂੰ ਬੇਨਤੀ ਕਰਦੇ ਹਾਂ ਕਿ ਗੁਰੂ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਦੇ ਉੱਚੇ-ਸੁੱਚੇ ਸਤਿਕਾਰ ਦੀ ਬਹਾਲੀ ਅਤੇ ਉਸ ਵਿੱਚ ਹੋਰ ਵਾਧਾ ਕਰਨ ਲਈ ਗੰਭੀਰਤਾ ਨਾਲ ਵਿਚਾਰ ਕਰੇ ਅਤੇ ਆਪਣਾ ਯੋਗਦਾਨ ਪਾਵੇ।

ਸੰਗਤ ਨੇ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਅਕਾਲ ਤਖ਼ਤ ਸਾਹਿਬ, ਸ਼੍ਰੋਮਣੀ ਗੁਰਦੁਆਰਾ ਪ੍ਰਬੰਧਕ ਕਮੇਟੀ ਅਤੇ ਸਮੂਹ ਪੰਥਕ ਸੰਸਥਾਵਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਅਪੀਲ ਕੀਤੀ ਕਿ ਇਸ ਗੰਭੀਰ ਮਾਮਲੇ ਬਾਰੇ ਤੁਰੰਤ ਅਤੇ ਢੁੱਕਵਾਂ ਫ਼ੈਸਲਾ ਲਿਆ ਜਾਵੇ, ਤਾਂ ਜੋ ਭਵਿੱਖ ਵਿੱਚ ਧੰਨ ਧੰਨ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗ੍ਰੰਥ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਪਾਵਨ ਸਰੂਪਾਂ ਦੀ ਆਵਾਜਾਈ ਅਤੇ ਸੇਵਾ-ਸੰਭਾਲ ਪੂਰੀ ਗੁਰਮਤਿ ਮਰਿਆਦਾ ਅਨੁਸਾਰ ਹੀ ਹੋਵੇ।

ਪ੍ਰੈਸ ਕਾਨਫਰੰਸ ਵਿੱਚ ਭਾਈ ਜੈਮਲ ਸਿੰਘ , ਭਾਈ ਗਗਨਦੀਪ ਸਿੰਘ , ਭਾਈ ਲਖਵੰਤ ਸਿੰਘ , ਭਾਈ ਅਮਨਦੀਪ ਸਿੰਘ , ਭਾਈ ਭੁਪਿੰਦਰ ਸਿੰਘ ਹੋਠੀ , ਭਾਈ ਜਸਬੀਰ ਸਿੰਘ , ਭਾਈ ਗੁਰਦੀਪ ਸਿੰਘ ਸਮਰਾ , ਭਾਈ ਹਰਦੀਪ ਸਿੰਘ ਨਾਗਰਾ, ਭਾਈ ਭਾਈ ਰਣਜੀਤ ਸਿੰਘ ਖਾਲਸਾ ਜੀ ਅਤੇ ਸੰਗਤਾਂ ਸ਼ਾਮਿਲ ਸਨ l

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SURREY, BC (KP) – Sikh organizations and members of the Lower Mainland Sangat held a press conference at Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara Sahib (Surrey–Delta) on Tuesday, calling for an immediate end to the practice of transporting Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Saroops overseas in commercial sea cargo containers.

The press conference, held at the Shaheed Bhai Hardeep Singh Nijjar Memorial Building, was organized in response to the recent shipment of 225 Saroops of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji from Punjab to Canada via commercial container ship. Speakers emphasized that the issue is not directed against any individual or organization, but is solely concerned with preserving the highest standards of Satkar (reverence), Gurmat Maryada, and Panthic principles in the transportation and handling of the Guru Granth Sahib’s Saroops.

Sri Akal Takht Management Asked to Issue Directive

Addressing reporters, representatives of the Sangat reiterated their long-standing opposition to transporting Saroops by commercial cargo vessels, palletized freight, or other methods used for ordinary commercial goods. They called upon Sri Akal Takht Sahib to issue a clear Panthic directive requiring that Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Saroops destined for countries outside India be transported only by air and in accordance with established Gurmat Maryada.

The Sangat noted that the Sikh community in British Columbia has consistently opposed sea shipment of Saroops since 2014, arguing that the concerns raised by the community over the past decade have not been adequately addressed. They urged Panthic institutions to respect this long-standing position.

Call for Appropriate Record Management of Whereabout of Saroops

Among the resolutions presented at the press conference were calls for comprehensive records to be maintained for every requested Saroop, including the identity and address of the recipient institution or family and confirmation that they are capable of maintaining the required Maryada. Organizers also asked that claims of high demand for Saroops be supported with verifiable evidence, noting that several Gurdwaras in the Lower Mainland have reported instances where Saroops have later been returned because proper care and maryada could not be maintained.

The Sangat further called for the development of comprehensive worldwide Panthic guidelines governing the printing, transportation, custody, and transfer of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Saroops. They also demanded an independent and transparent investigation into all decisions surrounding the recent shipment of 225 Saroops, with accountability established where appropriate.

Opposes Overseas Printing Presses

Another resolution expressed opposition to establishing printing presses outside India for the printing of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Saroops, stating that the Lower Mainland Sangat does not support such initiatives.

E-Mail Campaign Site Launched

To encourage wider Panthic participation, organizers announced the launch of StandForSatkar.org, a website that enables Sikhs around the world to send emails directly to Sri Akal Takht Sahib and the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC). The campaign urges Panthic institutions to discontinue the overseas shipment of Saroops through commercial sea cargo and to adopt transportation methods that fully uphold Sikh Maryada.

Responding to recent statements by SGPC officials that the Saroops were transported safely and without any disrespect.  The speakers maintained that the issue extends beyond just the physical condition of the Saroops. They stated that the standard of reverence being applied to the transportation process itself does not meet the expectations of the Lower Mainland Sangat.

Organizers repeatedly stressed that their objective is not to create conflict with the SGPC or any other institution, nor to divide the Sikh community. Instead, they said their goal is to elevate the standard of respect afforded to Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji and to ensure that similar controversies do not arise in the future.

The press conference concluded with an appeal to Sri Akal Takht Sahib, the SGPC, and Panthic organizations worldwide to address the matter promptly and establish uniform global standards governing the transportation and care of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Saroops in accordance with Gurmat Maryada.

The press conference was attended by Bhai Jaimal Singh, Bhai Gagandeep Singh, Bhai Lakhwant Singh, Bhai Amandeep Singh, Bhai Bhupinder Singh Hothi, Bhai Jasbir Singh, Bhai Gurdeep Singh Samra, Bhai Hardeep Singh Nagra, Bhai Ranjit Singh Khalsa, and members of the Sikh Sangat from across British Columbia.

Original Press Release in Gurmukhi:  225 ਪਾਵਨ ਸਰੂਪਾਂ ਦੀ ਬੇਅਦਬੀ ਦੇ ਮਾਮਲੇ ਸਬੰਧੀ ਬੀ.ਸੀ. ਦੇ ਗੁਰਦੁਆਰਾ ਸਾਹਿਬਾਨ ਅਤੇ ਸਮੂਹ ਸੰਗਤ ਵੱਲੋਂ ਪ੍ਰੈਸ ਕਾਨਫਰੰਸ

LOS ANGELES, USA — U.S. federal prosecutors have announced sweeping charges against alleged members of India-based organized crime networks, including claims that jailed gang leader Lawrence Bishnoi and associate Satinderjeet Singh, also known as Goldy Brar, ordered the 2023 assassination of Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, British Columbia.

The charges were announced as part of Operation Hard Ball, an international crackdown that led to 24 arrests across the United States, Canada and Europe. Prosecutors say the wider investigation targeted alleged crimes including murder, extortion, kidnapping, drug trafficking, weapons offences and human smuggling.

Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a prominent Sikh activist and president of Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara in Surrey, was shot and killed on June 18, 2023, outside the gurdwara. His killing sparked international concern and severely strained relations between Canada and India after Canadian officials alleged possible Indian government involvement, which India denied.

The new U.S. indictment alleges Bishnoi directed criminal activity from prison in India and that the Bishnoi network was involved in Nijjar’s killing. However, reports note the U.S. indictment does not accuse the Indian government of involvement.

Canadian authorities had previously charged four Indian nationals in connection with Nijjar’s killing. The latest arrests and indictments suggest investigators are now focusing on a broader transnational network allegedly operating across North America and beyond.

Sikh community advocates welcomed the law-enforcement action but said the full truth behind Nijjar’s assassination must still be pursued. Sikh activist Moninder Singh called the crackdown positive for public safety, while warning that questions remain about the wider network behind the violence.

WSO Action Against Bishnoi Gang

The World Sikh Organization of Canada (WSO) welcomed the coordinated law enforcement operation by authorities in the United States, Canada and Europe targeting the Lawrence Bishnoi terrorist network and other India-based transnational organized crime groups.

While welcoming today’s enforcement action, WSO stated that it was concerned that significant questions remain unanswered regarding the role of agents of the Government of India.

Canada’s National Security Adviser Nathalie Drouin testified before parliamentarians that India collected intelligence on Sikh Canadians through diplomatic channels and proxies, which was then provided to Indian authorities who passed the intelligence to the Bishnoi gang. Senior Canadian officials have also confirmed that India’s Home Minister Amit Shah directed campaigns of violence and intelligence gathering targeting Sikh activists in Canada.

WSO President Danish Singh said:

“We welcome today’s crackdown against the terrorist Bishnoi organization. The allegations contained in the U.S. indictment reinforce the serious threat posed by transnational organized crime to public safety and to members of the Sikh community.

Today’s arrests are an important step but they do not answer the questions that matter most to Sikh Canadians. The Government of Canada has already publicly identified links between agents of the Government of India and the Bishnoi gang. Sikhs expect full transparency regarding the role India played in these activities.

How was Lawrence Bishnoi able to operate an international criminal enterprise while in Indian custody? What role did Indian government officials play in enabling or facilitating these activities? What role did Home Minister Amit Shah play, as described by senior Canadian officials? Canadians deserve answers to these questions. Accountability cannot end with those who carried out these crimes. It must extend to anyone who enabled, directed or facilitated them.”

SURREY, BC  (KP) – The British Columbia Gurdwara Council, Ontario Gurdwara Committee, and Quebec Sikh Council issued a joint statement expressing serious concerns regarding the shipment of 225 saroops of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji by a commercial container ship to Canada.

The sacred saroops were placed in a dilapidated bus by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), which was subsequently loaded onto a commercial container ship for transport from India to Canada—a voyage that typically takes 30 to 60 days. After completing the transoceanic journey, the aging and weathered bus was unloaded and towed to Sri Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara in Surrey.

As the bus carrying the 225 sacred Saroops arrived at the Gurdwara, members of the Sangat noticed moisture and condensation accumulating on and around the vehicle once it was unhooked from the tow truck.

Click to view: Joint Statement by British Columbia Gurdwaras Council, Ontario Gurdwaras Committee, Quebec Sikh Council

Sikh organizations emphasized that Sikh Maryada requires Guru Sahib’s saroops to be transported with the highest respect, care, and dignity, and transporting them on a container ship for nearly two months has caused widespread concern among the Sikh Sangat regarding the lack of respect, sanctity, and proper respect of the sacred saroops during the unaccompanied long voyage – void of any sevadars.

Potential Risks to Saroops in Sea Voyage

Transporting the saroops in this manner exposes them to a number of potential risks, including the possibility of cargo containers being lost overboard during severe weather or rough seas. There is also the concern that prolonged exposure to fluctuating temperatures, humidity, condensation, and other environmental conditions inside a non-airtight vehicle could potentially affect the paper, ink, and binding of the saroops.

In addition, because the shipment would not remain under the continuous supervision of SGPC officials or Sikh sevadars throughout the voyage, there would be no practical means of ensuring that Sikh Maryada is observed at all times, including preventing unauthorized access, smoking, the wearing of shoes inside the vehicle, or any other form of physical disrespect or intentional mistreatment.

Akal Takht Management Silent on Previous Concerns 

The Canadian Sikh organizations also noted that previous concerns relating to similar incidents in 2014 and 2019 remain unresolved, despite the matter having been brought before Sri Akal Takht Sahib on multiple occasions. This has contributed to a lack of confidence in the timely resolution of such matters.

A directive issued by Sri Akal Takht Sahib on April 24, 2014, prohibits the transportation of the sacred saroops of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji via commercial container shipping until Panthic organizations, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), and Sri Akal Takht Sahib reach a consensus on appropriate guidelines and procedures.

The organizations urged Sri Akal Takht Sahib to consult representatives of Canadian Gurdwaras before issuing any decision and called for an independent and transparent inspection of all 225 saroops. Among the resolutions adopted are requests that the saroops be transferred to the supervision of the BC Gurdwara Council or another appropriate Panthic Gurdwara, that responsibility be determined if any damage is found, and that prompt action be taken to prevent further tensions within the Sikh community while upholding the highest standards of Sikh Maryada.

Sehaj Paath Organized in Repentance for Acts of Beadbi (Sacrilege)

Message From Local Sevadars:

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. 

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) reviewed the findings of Commissioner Marie-Josee Hogue in the Public Inquiry into Foreign Interference’s Initial Report released today, and welcomed the Report’s conclusion that India engages in foreign interference activities in Canada, targeting the Sikh community and that “India directed foreign interference activities related to the 2019 and 2021 general elections.”

The WSO is a member of the “Sikh Coalition” which was granted party standing in the Foreign Interference Commission, along with the BC Gurdwaras Council and the Ontario Gurdwaras Committee.

The report states,  “Indian officials, including Canadian-based proxies, engage in a range of activities that seek to influence Canadian communities and politicians. These activities include foreign interference, which aims to align Canada’s position with India’s interest on key issues, particularly with respect to how the Indian government perceives Canada-based supporters of an independent Sikh homeland (Khalistan)”

Other key findings in the Report with respect to India include:

India, without distinction, views all pro-Khalistan political advocacy as a seditious threat.
Targets of Indian foreign interference are often members of the Indo-Canadian communities, but prominent non-Indo-Canadians are also subject to India’s foreign influence activities.

“Indian officials in Canada have increasingly relied on Canadian and Canadian-based proxies and the contacts in their networks to conduct foreign interference. This obfuscates any explicit link between India and the foreign interference activities. Proxies liaise and work with Indian intelligence officials in India and in Canada, taking both explicit and implicit direction from them.”

With respect to the 2019 and 2021 Canadian Federal elections, the Report finds that “Indian proxy agents may have attempted to interfere in democratic processes, reportedly including through the clandestine provision of illicit financial support to various Canadian politicians as a means of attempting to secure the election of pro-Indian candidates or gaining influence over candidates who take office. In some instances, the candidates may never know their campaigns received illicit funds”

In the 2021 elections “Indian officials were observed expressing interest in individual electoral contests and likely hoped pro-Indian candidates would prevail, or, at least, that perceived anti-Indian candidates would not be (re-)elected”

WSO President Danish Singh said today, “We welcome Justice Hogue’s findings that India is engaging in foreign interference activities in Canada targeting the Sikh community but also engaged in interference activities in the 2019 and 2021 Canadian Federal Elections. India’s interference in Canada has been a lived reality for the Sikh community for the past four decades but has largely gone without notice in the mainstream.

Foreign interference in Canada from India poses a serious threat to our democratic institutions and to the rights guaranteed to all Canadians. For Sikhs, the impact of Indian foreign interference extends beyond just elections and has resulted in actual physical harm. The assassination of Bhai Hardeep Singh Nijjar underscores the consequences faced by those who dare to exercise their freedom of expression in defiance of intimidation by India.

There have been long-standing efforts to minimize and conceal India’s interference activities in Canada. We are hopeful that today’s Report will lead to greater transparency and decisive action to check India’s hostile activities targeting Canada and the Sikh community.”

The WSO is a non-profit national 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, irrespective or race, gender, ethnicity, religion or nationality.

OTTAWA, CANADA – In a released press statement, The World Sikh Organization of Canada welcomed reports that police have arrested members of an alleged hit squad that assassinated Bhai Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, B.C. last June. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had informed the House of Commons on September 18, 2023 of “credible allegations” linking the Government of India to the murder.

According to reports, the individuals arrested today belong to the “Bishnoi gang” based out of India. The gang’s leader, Lawrence Bishnoi, has been incarcerated in Indian prisons since 2014. He has recently appeared on Indian news media and declaring himself an Indian nationalist and vowing opposition to those who support Khalistan. The Bishnoi gang has been implicated in an expansive extortion network targeting businesses in Canada in at least six different cities. Lawrence Bishnoi also took responsibility for the murder of Punjabi rapper Sidhu Moosewala in May 2022. Moosewala, a former Brampton resident, had begun to speak publicly about Khalistan and discrimination faced by Sikhs in India.

Intelligence sources have told CBC News that India has been using criminal gangs to conduct its activities in Canada.

In the Foreign Interference Commission’s report released today, Commissioner Justice Marie-Josee Hogue also found that “Indian officials in Canada have increasingly relied on Canadian and Canadian-based proxies and the contacts in their networks to conduct foreign interference. This obfuscates any explicit link between India and the foreign interference activities. Proxies liaise and work with Indian intelligence officials in India and in Canada, taking both explicit and implicit direction from them.”

WSO President Danish Singh said today,  “While we welcome arrests in the assassination of Bhai Hardeep Singh Nijjar, we believe these arrests raise disturbing questions about the nexus between the Government of India and criminal gangs. How is an Indian criminal who has been in Indian prison since 2014 able to operate a gang targeting Sikhs in Canada for murder and extortion, on this scale?

Today’s report by the Foreign Interference Commission has confirmed that India uses proxies in Canada who work with Indian intelligence officials in India and Canada. While the arrest of the hit squad is important, what’s even more important is identifying and bringing to justice those who directed these operations. It would seem that the trail leads to India’s embassies and consulates in Canada and directly to the Government of India.”

The WSO is a non-profit national 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, irrespective or race, gender, ethnicity, religion or nationality.

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.