Sikh Americans say they are facing increased threats and surveillance from the Indian government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Activists and community leaders allege that the Indian government is targeting Sikhs in the US who are critical of Modi’s policies, particularly towards the Sikh-majority state of Punjab.
They claim the government is using tactics like doxxing, harassment, and even physical threats to intimidate the diaspora.
“There’s a concerted effort to surveil, harass, and threaten Sikh Americans who are speaking out against human rights abuses in India,” said one Sikh activist. “We’re being watched, our personal information is being spread online, and some of us have even received physical threats.”
The concerns come amid rising tensions between the Indian government and the Sikh community, both in India and abroad. Sikhs have long accused Modi’s Hindu nationalist administration of marginalizing their community and cracking down on dissent in Punjab.
Indian officials have denied the allegations, calling them “completely baseless.” However, Sikh Americans say the threats are very real and are impacting their ability to freely express their views.
Read more
US diplomat Donald Lu tells Congress he received death threats after Imran Khan’s cypher allegations
US thwarts plot to kill Sikh separatist, issues warning to India: reports
“We’re scared to even organize community events now,” said another Sikh leader. “The Indian government is trying to silence us, and we feel helpless against their reach and power.”
As the tensions continue, Sikh Americans say they are determined to keep speaking out, despite the risks. They hope that shining a light on the issue will help protect their community and its right to free speech.
