India Asks Allies to Curb 'Sikhs For Justice' Activities

On 17 Mar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, citing a surge in Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) activities, pressed visiting New Zealand counterpart Christopher Luxon to address rising Sikh separatism. Both leaders recalled the Christchurch attack of 15 Mar 2019 and the Mumbai attack of 26 Nov 2008. After the meeting PM Modi said, ‘We will continue to cooperate together against terrorist, separatist and radical elements.’ The two PMs also discussed defence ties, free trade pacts, and multilateral reforms. They called for a resolution in Ukraine, reaffirmed a two-state solution for Palestine-Israel, and supported maritime security cooperation. Wellington backed India’s quest for a permanent United Nations Security Council seat and membership in the 48-member Nuclear Suppliers Group. Though Luxon pledged to avoid diaspora politics, he refrained from commenting on banning Khalistan Referendums. Meanwhile, Auckland doctor Sapna Samant faced revocation of her Overseas Citizen of India visa for criticising the government’s treatment of minorities, including Sikhs, raising concerns that New Zealand might support India’s crackdown on dissidents. Also, on 18 Mar in New Delhi, former Australian PM Tony Abbott said, ‘There is no future for any separatism. I think people who might be unhappy with the status quo should work within the system to make it better rather than engaging in divisive and at times potentially violent activities against India.’ Meanwhile, US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard met Indian officials to enhance strategic cooperation and address pro-Khalistan entities, with India urging action against SFJ. In the US, the 7 Mar desecration of a Chino Hills, California Swaminarayan Temple by suspected Khalistan supporters stirred safety concerns, prompting condemnation from the Indian Ministry of External Affairs and a hate-crime probe. The desecration has assumed significance in the wake of a 23 Mar Khalistan Referendum in Los Angeles (earlier coverage).