The timing of this meeting has drawn attention given the tensions between India and some overseas Sikh communities. The Khalistan movement, which seeks an independent Sikh state, remains a contentious issue. Although banned in India for its links to violent extremism, the movement continues to find support in parts of the U.S. and Canada, where its proponents claim the right to free speech.
Pritpal Singh, founder of the American Sikh Caucus Committee, expressed gratitude to U.S. officials for their commitment to safeguarding Sikh Americans. He called for continued vigilance and stronger protective measures to ensure justice and safety for his community. Singh reiterated the long-standing concerns of Sikh Americans, emphasizing the need for accountability from the U.S. government to protect against foreign harassment.
This dialogue follows the introduction of the Transnational Repression Reporting Act, a piece of legislation proposed by Congressman Adam Schiff. The bill mandates the Attorney General to report cases of transnational repression targeting U.S. citizens. While the bill does not explicitly focus on the Sikh community, it has garnered attention from advocates who view it as a potential shield against foreign threats, especially from nations with strained relationships with diaspora groups.
The Khalistan movement has been a key factor in the strained relations between India and its overseas Sikh communities. Figures like Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a U.S.-based leader of the group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), have been central to the tensions. Pannun, declared a terrorist by India, continues to push for an independent Sikh state and has led campaigns that accuse India of repression. In 2023, Pannun filed a lawsuit in the U.S. against India’s government and top officials, claiming they plotted to assassinate him on U.S. soil.
While Washington has not officially endorsed any separatist elements, its approach to Khalistan supporters contrasts with India’s firm stance against the movement. U.S. officials, including those involved in the recent White House meeting, stressed that they are committed to protecting all citizens from external threats, ensuring that no one faces intimidation or harm from foreign governments. This stance, however, has fueled concerns in India, which has accused certain countries of harboring individuals who promote extremism and violence.
The meeting came at a sensitive time, with Modi scheduled for high-level meetings, including with U.S. President Joe Biden. While the official agenda for these discussions revolves around trade, defense, and technology partnerships, the backdrop of Sikh activism and Khalistan-related concerns has added a layer of complexity to the diplomatic engagements. Modi’s government has been vocal about its efforts to curb the Khalistan movement and the broader challenge of dealing with foreign-based separatist groups that engage in anti-India activities.