SALDEF Responds to 2023 Hate Crime Statistics Release

SALDEF Responds to 2023 Hate Crime Statistics Release

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) released their national report on hate crimes earlier this week. There were 156 anti-Sikh hate crimes documented in 2023.

“We continue to see Sikhs as one of the top three most targeted religious groups in the country,” said Kiran Kaur Gill, SALDEF Executive Director. “We are proud that the Sikh American community is willing to come forward with these incidents and to advocate for constructive change. Unfortunately, we know these numbers do not account for the true scope of hate around the country. Law enforcement agencies continue to under- and not- report the number of hate crimes in their regions.”

Documented hate crimes against the Sikh American community continue to be among the most reported categories since 2015, when the anti-Sikh category was first included in the FBI’s hate crimes report. The number of anti-Sikh hate crimes reported decreased from 2022, while the overall number of hate crimes increased.

SALDEF continues to urge Congress, policymakers, and law enforcement agencies around the country to take specific action to combat hate and increase resources for victims and community. The organization submitted recommendations to the Senate Judiciary Committee as a part of their hearing, “A Threat to Justice Everywhere: Stemming the Tide of Hate Crimes in America”.

If you are a victim of an act of hate or bias, after you have reached out to law enforcement and are in a safe place, we encourage you to share your experience with SALDEF. You can find more resources on how to respond to acts of hate, including from a community health perspective, on our Resources page.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 19, 2024

Contact: Amrita Kular, SALDEF Director of Communications

(202) 393-2700 | media@saldef.org

Schiff Introduces the Transnational Repression Reporting Act to Track Cases of Foreign Repression in the U.S.

Washington, D.C.— Today, Representative Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) introduced the Transnational Repression Reporting Act of 2024 which would require the Attorney General, in coordination with other relevant federal agencies, to submit a report of cases of transnational repression against U.S. citizens or people in the United States. Schiff’s bill comes after the 2023 attempted assassination against prominent Sikh activist, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.

“With transnational repression on the rise, the American people deserve to know if foreign governments are working to intimidate, harass, harm or kill individuals within the United States whom they view as hostile to their regimes,” said Rep. Schiff. “My bill will require a comprehensive report on cases of foreign governments targeting individuals here at home and American citizens abroad. I will continue to work with my colleagues to safeguard fundamental rights and freedoms, both domestically and around the world.”

Transnational repression violates the fundamental rights to free speech and privacy granted to all individuals in the United States – including foreign citizens, U.S. residents, and naturalized and U.S.-born citizens. According to the FBI, the most common targets of transnational repression are political and human rights activists, dissidents, journalists, political opponents, and members of religious or ethnic minority groups. Methods of transnational repression may include physical and digital stalking, harassment, computer hacking, criminal threats, assaults, attempted kidnappings, coerced repatriation, and detaining family members in the home country.

“The Transnational Repression Reporting Act is a major step forward in protecting the freedom of speech and civil rights of Americans,” said Kiran Kaur Gill, Executive Director of the Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF). “When foreign governments infringe upon American sovereignty, there must be full transparency around the violation for the safety of our communities. Through this bill, Congress sends a strong message to both allies and adversaries that violating the constitutional rights of Americans will not be tolerated. SALDEF and the Sikh American community thank Congressman Schiff for his leadership in protecting the rights of all Americans.”

“We are deeply grateful to Congressman Schiff for proposing this legislation and taking the continuing threat of all transnational repression, including India’s recent targeting of Sikhs, seriously. It is essential for our national security that the United States is not seen abiding such egregious violations of democratic values or international norms–including India’s harassing, harming, and plotting to kill U.S.-based Sikhs–without consequence. We hope that others in congress will join Congressman Schiff to support this significant step forward,” said Harman Singh, Executive Director of the Sikh Coalition.

“India must be made accountable for transnational repression on Sikhs and this bill helps combat the oppression and intimidation Sikhs are facing in America,” said Swaranjit Singh Khalsa, City Council Member from Norwich, Connecticut and one of the Directors of Sikh Assembly of America.

The Transnational Repression Reporting Act of 2024 is cosponsored by Representatives Daniel S. Goldman (D-N.Y), Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.), Barbara Lee (D-Calif.), James McGovern (D-Mass.), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), and Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.).

Schiff’s bill is also supported by Human Rights Watch, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund, Sikh Coalition, Sikh Assembly of America, American Sikh Caucus Committee, International Defenders Council, Public Affairs Alliance of Iranian Americans, Middle East Democracy Center, Hong Kong Democracy Council, Committee for Freedom in Hong Kong Foundation, and Falun Dafa Association.

Schiff has been a consistent leader in protecting Americans from transnational repression. He introduced the Stop Transnational Repression Act which would bolster the prosecution and oversight of transnational repression in 2022 and reintroduced the bill in December of 2023.

Read the full text of the bill HERE.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Friday, July 12, 2024

Contact:

Amrita Kular, (202) 393-2700, media@saldef.org

LOCAL AND NATIONAL SIKH ORGANIZATIONS CELEBRATE THE APPOINTMENT OF RAJ SINGH BADHESHA TO THE FRESNO COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT BENCH

Judge Raj Singh Badhesha Represents a Historic First for the Sikh Community in the United States

FRESNO, CA — In a momentous occasion for the Sikh community in the United States, the Jakara Movement, the Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF), and the Sikh Coalition, are proud to celebrate the historic appointment of Raj Singh Badhesha to the Fresno County Superior Court Bench.

An enrobing ceremony was held Thursday, July 11, 2024, at Fresno City Hall.

Raj Singh Badhesha’s appointment is not just a professional achievement; it represents the culmination of decades of perseverance and dedication by Sikhs in America. He is the first ever Sikh to wear a judge’s robe in Fresno County; he is also the first Amritdhari (fully initiated) Sikh Judge in the United States that wears the Dastar (Sikh turban) or Pagri, per reporting.  Badhesha’s presence on the bench symbolizes the rich cultural heritage and the enduring spirit of the Sikh community.

In response to his appointment, Badhesha remarked, “It is my hope moving forward, that the Sikh youth present here today know that they can use this example and aspire to serve this county, this state, and this nation, in any position they wish to pursue.”  He added, “As I step into this new phase of service, I am aware of the great weight of the responsibilities bestowed upon me…I will strive to do my best each and every day, act impartially, honorably, and with the utmost integrity.”

The Sikh community has deep roots in California’s Central Valley, with Sikh farmers and laborers having settled in the region over a century ago. Their contributions to agriculture and local industry have been invaluable, and their cultural influence is woven into the fabric of the region. Today, Sikhism is the fifth-largest religion in the world, with millions of adherents who follow its teachings of equality, justice, and selfless service.

Immediately before his appointment, Badhesha served as Chief Assistant City Attorney in the Fresno City Attorney’s Office since 2022 and served in several roles in that office since 2012. He was an Associate at the law firm of Baker Manock & Jensen, PC from 2008 to 2012.  Badhesha earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California College of the Law, San Francisco (formerly UC Hastings).

Naindeep Singh, Executive Director of the Jakara Movement, expressed his excitement, stating, “Raj Singh Badhesha’s appointment is a groundbreaking moment for Sikhs in America. It reflects our community’s resilience and our contributions to the broader society. We are incredibly proud of Raj for breaking this glass ceiling and confident that he will bring his unwavering commitment to justice and equality to the bench.”

“Raj Singh Badhesha’s appointment is a proud moment for the Sikh community in the Central Valley, throughout California and across the Country. He has displayed decades of dedication to justice and community advocacy, and serves as an inspiration to all those looking to serve and make change,” added SALDEF Executive Director Kiran Kaur Gill.

Harman Singh, Executive Director of the Sikh Coalition also commented on this milestone: “This appointment is a significant step towards greater representation and diversity within our judicial system. Raj Singh Badhesha’s journey and achievements inspire us all and highlight the importance of inclusion and equality in all spheres of public service.”

The Jakara Movement, SALDEF and the Sikh Coalition, will continue to support and advocate for the Sikh community, celebrating milestones like this that pave the way for future generations.

Pictures of Judge Badhesha’s Enrobing Ceremony are available here.

SALDEF at the Forefront of Protecting Sikh Americans

Faith-based communities in America have repeatedly come under attack.

These attacks not only threaten individual faith groups, such as Sikh Americans, but they also threaten the idea of religious freedom, one of the core principles under which our nation was founded. 

At SALDEF, the safety and security of the Sikh American community is our top priority.

We’re proud to share a significant step forward achieved through SALDEF’s leadership.

Since 2022, SALDEF Executive Director Kiran Kaur Gill has served as Chair of the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Faith-Based Security Advisory Council (FBSAC). This council plays a vital role in ensuring houses of worship, faith communities, and faith-based organizations have the resources and support they need to stay safe.

Leadership Leads to Action

Under Kiran’s leadership and based on SALDEF research and analysis, the committee has worked to identify substantive and meaningful recommendations to support and enhance faith-based communities’ ability to be able to prevent, respond to, and recover from acts of targeted violence.

In an effort to protect Sikh Americans and others from incidents of transnational repression, the subcommittee has published recommendations that the government should enact.

Not only does the report heighten domestic awareness of this threat, but it also includes recommendations for prosecuting perpetrators of transnational repression, increased victim support services for targeted communities and language-accessible resources and outreach.

The DHS also announced an increase of $390 million in grant funding for faith-based institutions and nonprofit organizations, bringing the total FY2024 total to over $664 million.

Earlier this year, SALDEF engaged in successful advocacy to get Congressional funding for our sangats through this program.

The Committee reports and recommendations are on the FBSAC page, and you can find them here: Faith-Based Security Advisory Council | Homeland Security (dhs.gov).

Stay Informed, Stay Safe

We encourage you to visit https://saldef.org/transnationalrepression and https://saldef.org/nonprofit-security-grant-program-nsgp-application/ for the latest updates on security resources and initiatives.

SALDEF’s leadership role in this DHS committee demonstrates our ongoing commitment to the safety and security of all faith-based communities. SALDEF’s work in protecting the Sikh American community never stops. We will continue to advocate for your safety and security at every level.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

April 25, 2024

Contact: Amrita Kular, SALDEF Director of Communications

(202) 393-2700 | media@saldef.org

Dr. Bains’ bill protecting diaspora communities is a historic first for California

AB 3027 represents a first historic step toward California recognizing the dangers of
transnational repression.

(Sacramento, CA) April 22, 2024 – Dr. Jasmeet Bains’ (D-Delano) proposal to address transnational repression continues to move swiftly with unanimous and bipartisan support through the legislative process, passing out of the Assembly Emergency Management Committee.

“Foreign governments are increasingly attacking the rights of dissidents and religious and ethnic minorities – not just within their borders, but after those individuals make new homes in places where they should be safe, including within US borders.” Dr. Bains said. AB 3027 represents a first historic step toward California recognizing the dangers of transnational repression. The bill defines transnational repression in law, requires local law enforcement to develop training to recognize and respond to transnational repression, and asserts that the State of California has a policy of protecting communities from transnational repression. Transnational repression is any action by a foreign government that attacks or intimidates an individual outside its borders. The attacks can come in many forms, including extrajudicial killings, surveillance, cyberattacks, and online harassment.

“Transnational Repression is a unique and growing threat to an increasing number of diaspora communities including Sikh Americans, Chinese, Iranian, and Russian communities. Last year, the Sikh community witnessed two prominent cases, one resulting in the tragic death of a Sikh activist in Canada, and the other in an indictment of a perpetrator targeting a Sikh American,” said Kavneet Singh, Acting Executive Director of SALDEF (Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund).

In a coordinated attack on June 18, 2023, Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar was shot and killed outside a place of worship in Surrey, British Columbia. By September 2023, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused the Indian government of organizing the killing and stated that there was credible evidence of a link between the killers and agents of the Indian Government. United States law enforcement agencies thwarted an additional plot to murder an American Sikh, this time in New York City, in November 2023. The incident on United States soil also pointed to the credible involvement of the Indian Government. SALDEF, in their letter of support for AB 3027, calls the bill “a necessary effort by California to protect the lives of its residents from foreign authoritarian regimes and stop transnational repression.”

The U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate are also considering similar legislation on transnational repression this session. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Rep. Christopher H. Smith (R-NJ-4) have both introduced bills in 2023, but no action has been taken on these bills since.

The Assembly Appropriations Committee will next consider the bill.

About SALDEF

SALDEF (The Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund) is the nation’s oldest Sikh American civil rights and advocacy organization. Based in Washington D.C., SALDEF works to build Sikh American capacity through education, fostering community, and civic engagement. By engaging with federal and state leaders, publishing critical policy reports, placing Sikh Americans in government and advocacy internships across the nation, and more. SALDEF is paving a brighter path for future generations. www.saldef.org

About State Assemblymember Dr. Jasmeet Bains 

Dr. Jasmeet Bains represents the 35th Assembly District in Kern County which includes the cities of Bakersfield, Delano, Wasco, Arvin, Shafter, and McFarland.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 25, 2024

Contact:

Amrita Kular, SALDEF Director of Communications

(202) 393-2700 | media@saldef.org

SALDEF & GA LEADERS MOURN TRAGIC DEATH OF SIKH MIGRANT IN GEORGIA IMMIGRATION DETENTION CENTER

Civil Rights Organizations Urge for a More Humane Immigration Process

WASHINGTON D.C. – The Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF) expresses deep sorrow over the death of Mr. Jaspal Singh, a 57-year-old Indian national, who passed away while in custody at the Folkston ICE Processing Center in Georgia. 

The Folkston ICE Processing Center is operated by the GEO Group, a private prison company, that has a documented history of abuse and neglect for migrants in their facilities. SALDEF joins the Southern Poverty Law Center, Asian Americans Advancing Justice (Atlanta), and Senator Nabilah Islam Parkes (SD-7) in urging federal policymakers to enact meaningful reforms that prioritize alternatives to detention and ensure the humane treatment of all individuals in immigration custody.

While the circumstances surrounding Mr. Singh’s death remain unclear, his passing raises serious concerns about the pattern of mistreatment of immigrants in detention facilities, particularly those run by private prison corporations like the GEO Group.

Kavneet Singh (Acting Executive Director of SALDEF):

“We are deeply saddened upon hearing of the tragic passing of Mr. Jaspal Singh,” said Kavneet Singh, Acting Executive Director at SALDEF. “Our deepest condolences are with his family and loved ones as they navigate this incredibly difficult time. We call upon ICE and local prison authorities to fully investigate the causes and circumstances that led to this death, including if any abuses occurred, and provide a complete accounting of the events.”

State Senator Nabilah Islam Parkes (GA SD-7):

“The death of Jaspal Singh in ICE custody is a tragedy fueled by a system with a troubling history,” said State Senator Nabilah Islam. “We must hold FIPC accountable for its ongoing human rights violations and ensure a humane immigration process that respects the dignity of all, especially those from marginalized communities like the Sikh American community.”

Meredyth Yoon (Litigation Director at Asian Americans Advancing Justice – Atlanta):

“Mr. Singh’s untimely passing occurs within the context of the Folkston ICE Processing Center’s history of mistreating Indian nationals and Sikhs in particular. Tragically, Mr. Singh’s name joins a long list of more than 230 people who have died while in ICE custody since its creation in 2003.”

Maura Finn (Senior Lead Attorney – Southern Poverty Law Center):

“We are horrified by the loss of Jaspal Singh while in the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the GEO Group. Our hearts go out to his family and loved ones as they face this cruel injustice.” said Maura Finn, Senior Lead Attorney at Southern Poverty Law Center. “Despite longstanding and well-documented human rights abuses, Congress continues to expand the number of beds in immigrant detention and direct millions of taxpayer dollars towards this inhumane system. Singh’s death is another reminder of the barbaric conditions that color our country’s broken immigration system. As politicians wield immigration as a wedge issue to score political points, Black and Brown migrants are dying in detention facilities handed over to the for-profit private prison industry.”

About SALDEF

SALDEF (The Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund) is the nation’s oldest Sikh American civil rights and advocacy organization. Based in Washington D.C., SALDEF works to build Sikh American capacity through education, fostering community, and civic engagement. By engaging with federal and state leaders, publishing critical policy reports, placing Sikh Americans in government and advocacy internships across the nation, and more. SALDEF is paving a brighter path for future generations. www.saldef.org

About State Senator Nabilah Islam Parkes

Nabilah Islam Parkes is the youngest woman ever elected to the Georgia State Senate. She is also the first Muslim woman and the first South Asian woman elected to the Senate. The daughter of working-class immigrants from Bangladesh, Nabilah watched her parents work long hours to put food on the table. When she was in high school, her mother was injured at the warehouse. Nabilah saw firsthand the devastating effects our broken healthcare system can have on families. Since that moment, Nabilah has been a staunch advocate fighting for quality healthcare and Medicaid expansion. In the State Senate, Nabilah has emerged as a strong fighter not only for healthcare access but also women’s reproductive rights, veterans, and tax relief for working families.

About Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC)

The SPLC is a catalyst for racial justice in the South and beyond, working in partnership with communities to dismantle white supremacy, strengthen intersectional movements, and advance the human rights of all people.

About Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Atlanta

Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Atlanta is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting the civil rights of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (AANHPI) and other immigrant communities in Georgia and the Southeast. 

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SALDEF Drives Bill Momentum with Four New Congressional Co-Sponsors to the Transnational Repression Policy Act

 

In the wake of recent transnational repression incidents targeting a Sikh American citizen in New York City, SALDEF has been heavily engaging with our Congressional and federal government allies to educate our nation’s leaders.

Amidst rising concerns about transnational repression, SALDEF has secured four new co-sponsors for the Transnational Repression Policy Act this January: Representative Goldman (NY-10), Representative Krishnamoorthi (IL-8), Representative Jayapal (WA-7), Representative Lee (CA-12). This critical bill, championed by SALDEF, offers targeted resources, protections, and government accountability to safeguard vulnerable communities.

By presenting compelling evidence and nuanced analyses of these transnational repression incidents, SALDEF is ensuring that Congress understands the immediate concerns of the Sikh community and also the broader implications for American democracy.

Here are some ways you can join the fight:

  • Contact the Biden Administration: Urge them to prioritize addressing transnational repression and its impact on Sikh Americans and all American communities.
  • Follow and share SALDEF’s social media content: Stay informed and amplify SALDEF’s message to raise awareness.
  • Donate to SALDEF: Your support fuels our critical work in protecting the rights and safety of Sikh Americans.

Sikh Americans have faced specific instances of transnational repression, including threats, harassment, and even attempted violence.  SALDEF works to expose these threats, advocate for justice, and ensure the safety and security of the Sikh American community. By advocating for policies and legislation that counter transnational repression, SALDEF seeks to create a safe environment for Sikh Americans to live and thrive.

The fight against transnational repression is ongoing, but SALDEF’s unwavering commitment is making a difference. By shining a light on this injustice and urging swift action, SALDEF is ensuring that Sikh Americans can live and thrive in America without fear, free from the shadows of foreign intimidation.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 26, 2024

Contact:

Amrita Kular, SALDEF Director of Communications

(202) 393-2700 | media@saldef.org

 

SALDEF Welcomes FBI’s Release of Punjabi PSA on Transnational Repression

Building on SALDEF advocacy, the release is an acknowledgement of community concerns

WASHINGTON D.C. — The Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF) welcomes the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for releasing a public service announcement (PSA) in Punjabi, addressing transnational repression.

“By releasing this announcement in Punjabi, the FBI is validating the ongoing and very real threat of transnational repression against Sikhs in America, ” said SALDEF Acting Executive Director, Kavneet Singh. “This release builds on months of discussions with the Administration on how to effectively ensure the safety of the community in light of deep concerns shared with us by the sangat and other minority communities. Issuing it in Punjabi means that this information will reach the most members of our community as possible. This public service announcement underscores how seriously the government is taking our concerns around the safety, security, and sovereignty of America and its residents.”

The PSA highlights various forms of transnational repression such as surveillance, stalking, harassment, and cyberattacks. It underscores the FBI’s commitment to protecting individuals in the United States from foreign threats and ensures that reports of repression are taken seriously, without the fear of information being shared with foreign governments. 

This critical development is a direct result of SALDEF’s continuous advocacy and engagement with the FBI, Congress, and the Administration to protect the rights and freedoms of the Sikh American community.

With detailed research reports in the past and a forthcoming report on transnational repression, SALDEF continues to lead the charge engaging with national leaders regarding the safety and advancement of Sikh American civil rights. 

SALDEF urges community members and the press to listen to and share the PSA, and to report any instances of transnational repression. The PSA is a crucial tool in our collective efforts to combat intimidation and threats from foreign entities.

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Please see the PSA’s transcription below, and you can listen to the full audio here.

“FBI ਤੋਂ ਮੈਂ ਹਾਂ ਸੁਖਵੀਰ ਕੌਰ ਤੇ ਹੁਣ ਸੁਣੋ FBI ਵਲੋਂ ਜਰੂਰੀ ਜਾਣਕਾਰੀ

I am Sukhvir Kaur from the FBI. Listen to this important message from the FBI.

ਸਾਡੇ ਦੇਸ਼ ਅਮਰੀਕਾ ਵਿਚ ਬਾਹਰਲੇ ਦੇਸ਼ਾਂ ਦੀਆਂ ਸਰਕਾਰਾਂ ਵੱਲੋਂ ਅੰਤਰਰਾਸ਼ਟਰੀ ਦਬਾਅ ਪਾਇਆ ਜਾ ਰਿਹਾ ਹੈ। ਇਸ ਨੂੰ ਰੋਕਣ ਲਈ ਐਫ਼ ਬੀ ਆਈ ਨੂੰ ਤੁਹਾਡੇ ਸਹਿਯੋਗ ਦੀ ਲੋੜ ਹੈ।

In our country, America, foreign governments are currently committing transnational repression. To stop this, the FBI needs your help.

ਵਿਦੇਸ਼ੀ ਸਾਰਕਾਰਾਂ ਜਾਂ ਉਹਨਾਂ ਦੇ ਮੁਲਾਜ਼ਮਾਂ ਜਾਂ ਮੁਖਬਰਾਂ ਵਲੋਂ ਅਮਰੀਕਾ ਵਿਚ ਵਸਦੇ ਕਿਸੇ ਵੀ ਇਨਸਾਨ ਨਾਲ ਕੀਤੇ ਜਾ ਰਹੇ ਅੰਤਰਰਾਸ਼ਟਰੀ ਦਬਾਅ ਦੀਆਂ ਕੁਝ ਕਿਸਮਾਂ ਇਹ ਨੇ:

These are the types of TNR Foreign governments; their operatives or informants are conducting against any person living in America:

ਨਿਗਰਾਨੀ ਰੱਖਣੀ, ਪਿੱਛਾ ਕਰਨਾ, ਤੰਗ ਪਰੇਸ਼ਾਨ ਕਰਨਾ,  ਅਗਵਾ ਕਰਨ ਦੀ ਕੋਸ਼ਿਸ਼ ਜਾਂ ਉਸ ਤੇ ਸਰੀਰਕ ਹਮਲਾ ਕਰਨਾ, ਅਤੇ ਧਮਕੀਆਂ ਤੇ ਡਰਾਵੇ ਰਾਹੀਂ ਜ਼ਬਰਦਸਤੀ ਕਿਸੇ ਭਾਈਚਾਰੇ ਜਾਂ ਵਿਅਕਤੀ(ਆਂ) ਬਾਰੇ ਜਾਣਕਾਰੀ ਇਕੱਠੀ ਕਰਨ ਦੀ ਕੋਸ਼ਿਸ਼ ਕਰਨੀ।

Surveillance, stalking, harassing, attempting to kidnap or attacking someone physically. and coercively trying to gather intelligence about a community or individual(s) through threats and intimidation.

ਕਿਸੇ ਨੂੰ ਉਸ ਦੇ ਮੂਲ ਦੇਸ਼ ਨੂੰ ਮੁੜਨ ਲਈ ਮਜਬੂਰ ਕਰਨਾ ਜਾਂ ਮੂਲ ਦੇਸ਼ ਵਿੱਚ ਵਸਦੇ ਉਸਦੇ ਰਿਸ਼ਤੇਦਾਰਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਡਰਾਉਣਾ ਜਾਂ ਹਿਰਾਸਤ ਵਿਚ ਲੈਣਾ।

Forcing someone to return to their country of origin or intimidating or taking relatives into custody that live in the person’s country of origin

ਕਿਸੇ ਦੇ ਕੰਪਿਊਟਰ ਜਾਂ ਫੋਨ ਨੂੰ ਹੈਕ ਕਰਕੇ ਉਸ ਦੀ ਨਿੱਜਤਾ ‘ਤੇ ਹਮਲਾ ਕਰਨਾ ਜਾਂ ਉਸ ਬਾਰੇ ਇੰਟਰਨੈਟ ‘ਤੇ ਕੂੜ

ਪ੍ਰਚਾਰ ਕਰਨਾ।

Hacking into someone’s computer or phone and attacking their privacy OR conducting disinformation campaigns against someone

ਕਿਸੇ ਦੀਆਂ ਵਿੱਤੀ ਜਾਇਦਾਦਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਜ਼ਬਤ ਕਰਨਾ।

Forfeiting someone’s financial assets

ਜੇ ਤੁਹਨੂੰ ਲਗਦਾ ਹੈ ਕਿ ਤੁਸੀਂ ਅੰਤਰਰਾਸ਼ਟਰੀ ਦਬਾਅ ਦੇ ਸ਼ਿਕਾਰ ਹੋ ਤਾਂ ਐਫ਼ ਬੀ ਆਈ  ਨੂੰ ਹੁਣੇ 1-800 CALL FBI ਜਾਂ 1 800 225 5324 ਤੇ ਸੰਪਰਕ ਕਰੋ ਤੇ ਜੇ ਤੁਹਡੇ ਲਈ ਅੰਗਰੇਜੀ ਵਿੱਚ ਗੱਲ ਕਰਨਾ ਮੁਸ਼ਕਿਲ ਹੈ, ਤਾਂ ਤੁਸੀਂ ਪੰਜਾਬੀ ਵਿੱਚ ਗਲ ਕਰਨ ਲਈ ਕਹਿ ਸਕਦੇ ਹੋ।

If you believe you are a target of TNR, call the FBI now at 1-800 CALL FBI। 1 800 225 5324 or if you have difficulty speaking in English ask to speak to someone in Punjabi

ਜਾਂ ਐਫ਼ ਬੀ ਆਈ ਦੀ ਵੈਬਸਾਈਟ tips.fbi.gov ‘ਤੇ ਆਪਣੀ ਸ਼ਿਕਾਇਤ ਦਰਜ ਕਰਾਓ।

Or visit tips.fbi.gov to submit your complaint.

ਹੋਰ ਜਾਣਕਾਰੀ ਲਈ ਦੇਖੋ, fbi.gov/TNR

For more information, check, fbi.gov/TNR

ਜੇਕਰ ਤੁਸੀਂ ਤੁਰੰਤ ਸਰੀਰਕ ਖਤਰੇ ਵਿੱਚ ਹੋ, ਤਾਂ 911 ‘ਤੇ ਕਾਲ ਕਰੋ।

If you are in immediate physical danger call 911

ਐਫ਼ ਬੀ ਆਈ ਵੱਲੋਂ ਤੁਹਾਡੀ ਰਿਪੋਰਟ ਕਦੇ ਵੀ ਕਿਸੇ ਵਿਦੇਸ਼ੀ ਸਰਕਾਰ ਨਾਲ ਸਾਂਝੀ ਨਹੀਂ ਕੀਤੀ ਜਾਵੇਗੀ। ਐਫ਼ ਬੀ ਆਈ ਦਾ ਮਨੋਰਥ ਅਮਰੀਕਾ ਵਿੱਚ ਵਸਦੇ ਲੋਕਾਂ ਦੀ ਰੱਖਿਆ ਕਰਨਾ ਅਤੇ ਯੂਨਾਈਟਡ ਸਟੇਟਸ ਦੇ ਸੰਵਿਧਾਨ ਨੂੰ ਕਾਇਮ ਰੱਖਣਾ ਹੈ।

Your report will never be shared with any foreign government by the FBI. The mission of the FBI is to protect people living in the United States and uphold the Constitution of the United States.”

About SALDEF:

SALDEF is the nation’s oldest Sikh civil rights group based in Washington, D.C. focused on advocating for civil rights, investing in Sikh youth, and building capacity in the Sikh American community.

Our mission is to empower Sikh Americans by building dialogue, deepening understanding, promoting civic participation, and upholding social justice and religious freedom for all Americans.

We are grounded in our values of optimism (chardi kala), humility (nimrata), and service (seva), inspired by the community (sangat) for the benefit of all (sarbat da bhalla). We envision a United States where Sikh Americans are recognized as a vibrant and integral part of the fabric of this nation and are respected for our shared values of service, social justice, and an unshakeable belief in freedom and equality for all.

You can learn more at www.saldef.org

 

For media inquiries or further information, please contact:

Amrita Kular, SALDEF Director of Communications

(202) 393-2700 

media@saldef.org

SALDEF Submits Letter to Senate Foreign Relations Committee Hearing on Transnational Repression

Along with other leading civil rights organizations, SALDEF submitted a statement urging the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee to engage the Biden Administration on meaningfully confronting the Indian Government on the issue of transnational repression.

Letter to Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Transnational Repression HearingDownload