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Pope to UAE Sikhs: Faith and service are intimately linked

“Faith and service, as you are aware, are intimately linked.”, said His Holiness Pope Francis

Members of the Sikh Delegation from Guru Nanak Darbar of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates met His Holiness Pope Francis at the Apostolic Palace in Vatican on 11th November 2023.

His Holiness expressed his joy to receive the diverse delegation and to learn about the faith-inspired service they offer the communities in those countries that have become their home and encouraged them to continue their selfless service which leads to God.

Such efforts, the Pope noted, “bear witness to your endeavour to live by faith and to contribute to the good of society,” especially as they seek to integrate themselves but at the same time “remain steadfast to your own specific identity.”

The Pope expressed gratitude for their commitment to building bridges among people, and serving the poor, the needy, and the suffering, noting that, in doing so, they acknowledge the ways their own lives have been blessed and enriched.

Indeed, the true path to God, as your Holy Scripture Guru Granth Sahib – “Sukhmani Sahib”…ang (page) 286 says,” the Pope continued, “lies in the service of our fellow human beings.” The Gospel brings us these words of Jesus: “I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me to drink, I was stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me” (Mt. 25:35-36). Selfless service rendered in particular to the least in our midst, and to those on the peripheries of society, besides makes us consciously aware of our own littleness and insufficiency, bring us closer to God.  May service, then, always remain your way of life and may you be a blessing to all whom you serve in promoting the spirit of fraternity, equality, justice and peace.

Gurudwara Guru Nanak Darbar Dubai has also been instrumental in promoting interfaith dialogue and understanding. Through its various initiatives, such as seminars, workshops, and interfaith prayer gatherings, the Gurudwara has facilitated meaningful conversations between different religious communities, promoting respect, harmony, and a shared vision of peaceful coexistence.

Sharing material wealth and largesse is a calling as is service and the cleansing of the soul by engaging in the most menial of tasks which we perform with joy in our hearts even when it is penance for a transgression we may have committed. It is with these priorities that the House of Worship – The Guru Nanak Darbar Gurudwara was built in the UAE, mentions Surender Singh Kandhari, Chairman Guru Nanak Darbar Gurudwara Dubai.

The challenges we face in the world today are manifold. We see wars, conflicts, and violence often occurring in the name of religion, and our environment is suffering due to our unsustainable practices. It is in times like these that the importance of unity, compassion and cooperation among people of all faith becomes even more evident. Now, more than ever, it is crucial that we, as individuals and as members of various faith communities, join hands to address the pressing global issues of our time. Together, we can strive for a world where the principles of love, compassion, and shared responsibility for our planet prevail over division and conflict. In the spirit of interfaith dialogue and cooperation, we can make a significant difference in creating a more peaceful and sustainable future for all, quotes Mr. Kandhari.

The Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue, Vatican City sends you cordial greetings on the occasion of the Birth Anniversary of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, celebrated worldwide this year on 27 November. May all your festive events bring you joy and peace and help enhance the spirit of unity and solidarity in your families and communities.  As believers with shared convictions and concerns for the wellbeing of all and that of the earth, may we Christians and Sikhs, joining hands with everyone who cares for the welfare of humanity, endeavour to do all we can to bring about a positive change in climatic conditions and become responsible and genuine stewards of creation!

We wish you all a Happy Prakash Diwas of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji!

On this auspicious occasion of the birthday anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, I extend my heartfelt greetings and best wishes to the entire Sikh community at Guru Nanak Darbar Gurudwara Dubai. As we celebrate this joyous occasion, let us also remember the importance of unity and harmony. In the spirit of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings, let us come together as a community to support one another, regardless of differences, and work towards creating a more compassionate and inclusive society. May we continue to walk the path of righteousness and spread the message of Guru Nanak Dev Ji to all corners of the world, Surender Singh Kandhari, Chairman, Gurudwara Guru Nanak Darbar Dubai.

Pope Meets Sikh Delegation from Dubai- Pope Francis with Dr Surender Singh Kandhari, Chairman, Gurudwara Guru Nanak Darbar Dubai Surender Singh Kandhari, Chairman, Gurudwara Guru Nanak Darbar Dubai
Pope Francis with Bubbles Kandhari
Pope Meets Sikh Delegation from Dubai
Pope Meets Sikh Delegation from Dubai
Pope Meets Sikh Delegation from Dubai
Pope Meets Sikh Delegation from Dubai
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UK News

Sikhs in Midlands fight Indian woman’s deportation  

The UK Home Office maintains that Ms Kaur is in contact with people in her village in Punjab and that she would be able to re-adjust to life there…reports Asian Lite News

The case of an elderly Indian Sikh woman, which was first reported in 2019, continues to attract widespread community support in England’s West Midlands as her supporters fight her deportation.

Gurmit Kaur, 78, came to the UK in 2009 and Smethwick has been home to her ever since, reads an online petition that has attracted over 65,000 signatures since it was launched in July 2020.

More recently, “We Are All Gurmit Kaur” has been running across social media platforms as the local community continues to rally around the widow.

“Gurmit Kaur has no family to turn to in the UK and no family to return to in Punjab. So the local Sikh community of Smethwick has adopted her,” reads the petition on change.org.

“Gurmit Kaur applied to stay but has been refused even though she has no family to return to in Punjab, India. Gurmit is a very kind woman, even though she has nothing she is still generous and will always give what she can, when she can. Most of her days are spent volunteering at the local gurdwara,” it read.

The UK Home Office maintains that Ms Kaur is in contact with people in her village in Punjab and that she would be able to re-adjust to life there.

Salman Mirza, an immigration advisor for the Brushstroke Community Project, who started the petition and is among those helping Ms Kaur through the visa appeals process, told BBC that her ordeal has been torture for her.

“She has a derelict house in the village, with no roof, and will have to find heating, food, and resources in a village she hasn’t been to in 11 years. It’s like water torture, a slow death. She’s never had the right to work and provide for herself,” he said.

A Home Office spokesperson said that while it cannot comment on individual cases, “all applications are carefully considered on their individual merits and on the basis of the evidence provided”.

Gurmit Kaur first travelled to the UK in 2009 to attend a wedding and initially lived with her son.

After getting estranged from her family, she went on to rely on the kindness of strangers. She has widespread support within the local community where she regularly volunteers at local charities.

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-Top News India News USA

Turban Does Not Mean Terrorism: NYC Mayor

Adams addressed members of the Sikh community at Baba Makhan Shah Lubana Sikh Center in South Richmond Hill on Sunday…reports Asian Lite News

Acknowledging the contributions of the Sikh community in the US and pledging to protect them in future, New York City Mayor said he takes full responsibility for the recent hate-motivated attacks against its members, and that their “turban does not mean terrorism”.

Adams addressed members of the Sikh community at Baba Makhan Shah Lubana Sikh Center in South Richmond Hill on Sunday after two back-to-back incidents in New York, which left an elderly Sikh dead and saw another punched and beaten for wearing a turban.

“Your turban does not mean terrorism. It means protecting, it means community, it means family, it means faith, it means city, it means us coming together. We will change the dialogue and narrative with you. We can do it together,” Adams said.

“It is so ironic that my knowledge of what your turban represents. It represents your history of being a protector that is now being used as a target and a tool to seek out and harm your community.”

Adam’s remarks came in reference to the 19-year-old Mani Sandhu who was punched and an attempt was made to remove his turban onboard a Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) bus in New York City this month.

Sandhu was on his way to a Sikh temple in Queens and was about to get off near Liberty Avenue and 118th Street when Christopher Philippeaux, who has been arrested, walked up and assaulted him.

Sandhu, who moved to the US 10 months ago said that the attack had left him “shaken and angry”.

Adams said that Sikhs have served as an “anchor” and their presence have uplifted the Richmond Hill community.

“You are not about terror, you are about protecting. That is what needs to be taught throughout this entire city. Our young people need to know that, our adults need to know that,” the Mayor said, speaking of the rich history of the community.

The Mayor also called the killing of 66-year-old Jasmer Singh, who died after being beaten during a road rage incident October 19, as a “violent senseless act”, and vowed to protect the community and educate people about Sikhism.

“Jasmer should still be with us. He should still be with his son. He should still be living out the American dream, watching his son, who’s now an immigration attorney. He should still be looking and part of this community. That dream turned into a nightmare the other day when his life was taken from us prematurely,” Adams said.

“I will commit myself to educate, to protect and to continuously be a part of this community. This community means so much to me,” he said.

Joining Adams was New York Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar who said that as the first Punjabi ever elected to state office, she will “not stop working until we end this hate”.

“When a crime occurs against any of us, it is a crime against all of us, and we come together in solidarity. Sikhs are our protectors… Every practitioner of this beautiful faith deserves our unyielding respect. As the first Punjabi-American ever elected to New York State Office, I will always fight for the freedom and dignity of Sikh Americans,” Rajkumar had said in a statement posted on X.

Local activists told CBS News that they are in the process of fundraising to start a patrol group as recent police data has shown that crimes have gone down where civilian patrols are conducted.

Releasing its annual report of hate crimes statistics in 2022 this month, the FBI recorded 198 cases of hate crimes against the Sikhs, stating that the community still remains the second-most targeted group in the nation.

ALSO READ: Unmasking Khalistan’s Distorted View Of Sikh Aspirations

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-Top News India News World News

India Pledges Support for Sikhs, Condemns Extremism

India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar

India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar expressed his belief that the current discussions surrounding the ‘Khalistan’ issue do not represent the broader Sikh community…reports Asian Lite News

India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, emphasized the Modi government’s dedication to addressing the concerns of the Sikh community, highlighting that extremist elements represent only a small minority within the community.

Speaking at a press conference in Washington DC, Mr. Jaishankar addressed the ongoing ‘Khalistan’ issue and reassured the international community that it does not reflect the views of the entire Sikh community.

Over the last decade, the Indian government has made substantial efforts to address the issues affecting the Sikh community, stated Mr. Jaishankar, underlining their commitment to ensuring the welfare and rights of the Sikh population.

He expressed his belief that the current discussions surrounding the ‘Khalistan’ issue do not represent the broader Sikh community but are primarily propagated by a small minority with separatist inclinations and a proclivity for violence.

In his address, Mr. Jaishankar also drew attention to India’s strained relations with Canada, attributing the tension to the Canadian government’s alleged permissiveness regarding terrorism, extremism, and violence within its borders.

He mentioned that this permissiveness has hindered the extradition of individuals and organizations involved in violence and illegal activities in India. He highlighted that some individuals and groups openly espouse violence and illicit activities without repercussions, creating a challenging diplomatic situation.

The ongoing diplomatic dispute between India and Canada escalated when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused the Indian government of involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India categorically rejected these allegations, deeming them absurd and motivated, and called on Canada to provide evidence to substantiate the claims.

In response to the escalating tensions, India suspended its visa services in Canada, signaling its dissatisfaction with Canada’s approach to the issue. Additionally, India issued an advisory to its citizens and travelers to Canada, urging them to exercise utmost caution due to the rising anti-India activities, politically-condoned hate crimes, and criminal violence within the country.

The Sikh community, which plays a significant role in India’s cultural and social fabric, has been a subject of concern in recent times due to the ‘Khalistan’ issue and allegations of separatism and violence.

Mr. Jaishankar’s statement underscores India’s commitment to protecting the rights and interests of the Sikh community while also emphasizing the need for unbiased actions by respective governments when addressing extremist elements.

(The article first appeared in Khalsa Vox)

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India News Punjab

Reverse Migration of Sikhs Back to Punjab

Students who were stranded amid the Russia-Ukraine war, arrive at IGI Airport in New Delhi. (Photo Anupam Gautam_IANS)

This incident served as yet another stark reminder of the precarious situations many Sikhs and Punjabis find themselves in while seeking better opportunities abroad…reports Manjari Singh

In the past few years, a notable shift in migratory trends has been observed among the Sikh and Punjabi diaspora, particularly from countries like Canada, the UK, and the US. These communities, which once sought better lives and opportunities abroad, are now making the journey back home to Punjab, their Pind, a region that holds their roots. This reverse migration is a narrative that needs to be told, a testament to the changing global climate and the evolving dynamics of our own nation.

For decades, people from Punjab have been emigrating to countries like Canada and the UK, drawn by the allure of prosperity, higher living standards, and the promise of a ‘better life’. However, the dream often clashes with reality. The increase in hate crimes, persecution, and ill-treatment by locals in these countries has been a source of concern and has indeed, become a significant factor driving this reverse migration.

In recent years, there has been a disturbing rise in hate crimes against Sikhs and Punjabis in the Western world. These communities, despite their significant contributions to society, have often found themselves at the receiving end of xenophobia and racism. The turban, a symbol of faith and dignity for Sikhs, has become a target for racial slurs and physical attacks. The cultural diversity that was once celebrated is now being threatened by ignorance and intolerance.

Unfortunately, these hate crimes are not isolated incidents but a part of a larger, more concerning trend. According to the Sikh Coalition, the largest Sikh civil rights organization in the US, Sikhs are hundreds of times more likely to experience hate crimes than the average American. This, coupled with the lack of proactive measures by the respective governments to address these issues, has led to a sense of disillusionment and insecurity.

The plight of Sikhs and Punjabis abroad is further illustrated by a recent incident involving students in Canada. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) issued deportation letters to around 700 Indian students, the majority hailing from Punjab after their admission letters to Canadian universities were found to be fraudulent. This action, however, was swiftly put on hold following protests and intervention by the Indian government.

This incident served as yet another stark reminder of the precarious situations many Sikhs and Punjabis find themselves in while seeking better opportunities abroad. The threat of deportation, combined with a lack of support and understanding, has heightened the sense of vulnerability and insecurity among these communities. Such incidents have undoubtedly contributed to the growing trend of reverse migration, as Sikhs and Punjabis look towards their homeland for stability and respect.

Another notable factor fueling this reverse migration is the increasing difficulty in securing stable employment and equal opportunities in the host countries. Despite their skill sets and qualifications, people from these communities often face discriminatory practices in the job market.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ucxlfG4REAc&t=1s

But the story of reverse migration doesn’t end with the grim realities abroad. The tide of returning Sikhs and Punjabis also speaks volumes about the rapid development and progress happening back home in India. In recent years India at large has witnessed unprecedented economic growth. There’s a palpable buzz of entrepreneurship, technological advancements, and infrastructural development that is enticing these communities to return.

The return of these communities to their homeland is not just a migration story, but a narrative of resilience and the search for dignity, respect, and opportunity. It is a powerful reminder that progress and prosperity must be inclusive and that any form of discrimination has far-reaching consequences.

While the rising tide of hate crimes is a challenge that needs urgent attention, the silver lining in this story is India’s emergence as a global powerhouse, offering a beacon of hope for its returning sons and daughters. The reverse migration of Sikhs and Punjabis is a testament to the winds of change, blowing towards a future filled with promise and opportunity right here at home.

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Community Europe Lite Blogs

Sikh Workers Enslaved on Italian Farms

There were reportedly over 400,000 agricultural workers in Italy at risk of exploitation, with nearly 100,000 likely subjected to “inhumane conditions”, a report by Antariksh Singh

In the heartland of Italy, under the shadow of the Tyrrhenian Sea, is the Agro-Pontino, a 100-mile stretch of fertile plains. It is an idyllic setting, abundant with verdant fields and panoramic landscapes, transformed into productive farmland from former marshland by Benito Mussolini’s directed mass migration in the early 20th century.

Today, the land bears witness to a darker narrative – the story of Italy’s Sikh slaves. An unexpected consequence of global economic interdependence and the unrelenting demand for cheap labour.

Balbir Singh, a migrant worker from Punjab, candidly shares his chilling tale. With the use of the Italian word ‘macello’, he tries to encapsulate the ordeal he endured – a term that roughly translates to ‘mess’. But ‘mess’ barely begins to illustrate the hellish six-year saga that Singh lived through in Latina, a rural region south of Rome and home to tens of thousands of Indian migrants.

“I was working 12-13 hours a day, including Sundays, with no holidays, no rest,” Singh confided. A wage of 100 to 150 euros a month, which roughly amounts to less than 50 cents an hour, was his only reward for the inhumane labour conditions. A stark contrast to the legal minimum wage of 10 euros an hour, illustrating the depth of exploitation these workers face.

Singh’s plight is not an isolated one. It is a grim fragment of a broader canvas painted with the abuse of migrant farmworkers, not only in Agro Pontino but across Italy. The situation is alarming enough to catch the attention of global institutions. As per the UN’s special rapporteur on contemporary forms of slavery, in 2018, there were over 400,000 agricultural workers in Italy at risk of exploitation, with nearly 100,000 likely subjected to “inhumane conditions”.

The population of the Agro-Pontino, once primarily Italian, is now significantly Indian. Conservative estimates suggest there are at least 11,000, though the number could be quadruple that figure. These economic migrants, primarily Sikhs from Punjab in northern India, journey thousands of miles with the promise of better lives for themselves and their families. They arrive to till the land, nurturing Italy’s agricultural industry, and send remittances back home, often making significant sacrifices for the financial well-being of their families.

However, the promised land too often turns into a realm of broken dreams. Unscrupulous agri-businesses and organized crime syndicates exploit these workers mercilessly. They labour under abysmal conditions, paid meagre wages, often without formal employment documentation, effectively reducing them to a status reminiscent of servitude. Their dreams of a better life crumble under the weight of abuse and exploitation, trapped within a system seemingly designed to suppress and oppress them.

Their predicament is compounded by the lack of official documentation, rendering them invisible in the eyes of the law and society. This lack of visibility provides a protective cloak for their exploiters, who thrive in an environment where accountability is the exception rather than the norm.

The sprawling plains of the Agro-Pontino, now a critical hub of Italy’s food production, are nourished by the sweat and tears of these invisible victims. This region, transformed by Mussolini from marshland to fertile farmland, is ironically mired in a new form of fascism – one perpetrated by modern agri-businesses and organized crime networks.

Investigating deeper into this unsettling reality reveals a grim contrast to the bucolic charm of the Italian countryside. The dreams and aspirations of these economic migrants are tethered to the land they cultivate, toiling in the fields that feed Italy and much of Europe.

The story of Italy’s Sikh slaves is one of extreme courage and endurance in the face of a brutal and unyielding system. Their presence and significant contributions to Italy’s agricultural sector are undeniable, yet they remain unseen, unheard, and unacknowledged. In a globalized world increasingly conscious about fair trade, sustainable practices, and social equity, their plight cannot and should not be ignored. It’s time for the international community to act, shedding light on this hidden crisis, and working towards fair and humane labour practices in Italy and across the globe.

(Khalsa Vox)

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Community India News

Sikhism underpins philanthropy, the core concept of ‘seva’ 

Sikhs also engage in community development projects to address long-term challenges and upliftment of marginalized communities…reports Asian Lite News

We are well aware that all religions propagate service to humanity, Sikhism staunchly emphasizes the concept of ‘seva’. For a Sikh, ‘seva’ (selfless service) and ‘simran’ (remembrance of Guru’s words) are mandates to be followed religiously. According to Guru Nanak Devji, true ‘seva’ is one with any expectation of rewards and must be followed with the utmost purity of intention.

Sikhism underpins philanthropy, the core being the concept of ‘seva’ which is believed to purify the soul, cultivate humility and nurture a sense of community. This ideology has given birth to ‘Langars’ or free community kitchens, found in Gurudwaras worldwide. ‘Langars’ serve free vegetarian food to everyone regardless of their caste, creed, gender, or social status. Sikhs volunteer for various activities in this process. These volunteers known as ‘Sevadars’, selflessly prepare, serve, and even clean up after ‘Langar’, fostering a spirit of unity and service.

The soup kitchen at The Golden Temple, Amritsar is a shining example in this respect. Being the largest community kitchen, the Golden Temple Langar feeds around one lakh people every day. There is no fixed mealtime here; people are always fed when they visit. And there’s always enough for everyone. It is said. that nobody sleeps hungry in the sacred city for the ‘Langar’ never stops!

Another such ‘Langar’ is served at the Gurudwara Bangla Sahib in New Delhi. Reportedly 50-75 thousand people eat at this shrine on a daily basis. It starts at 5 AM and continues till the wee hours of the night. The ‘seva’ is free for all to volunteer.

The meals served at these ‘Langars’ are not only finger-licking-good but also nutritionally balanced and wholesome. It takes armies of people to prepare these meals and the teamwork really shines through. The kitchens are clean, stellar efforts are made to ensure the same. People work round the clock, tirelessly, to feed others. And what do they get in return for this selfless service? Blessings and spiritual satisfaction!

The concept of ‘seva’ further extends to humanitarian aid and disaster management by Sikhs. In times of natural calamities like earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, etc. volunteers from the Sikh community always come to the rescue by providing food, water, medical aid, and shelter to those affected. This commitment to serving the community is grounded in the teachings of their religion which reiterates the inherent dignity of every individual. Water Africa was an initiative to provide safe, clean drinkable water in villages of Africa in the face of frequent draughts faced in this region. As more than a million migrants and refugees crossed into Europe in 2015, their teams have been working non-stop to support these refugees with vital supplies.

Education and Health are considered essential human rights by Sikhs. In lieu of this belief, they contribute actively to these spheres. The Nanhi Chhaan Foundation, founded by environmentalist Baba Balbir Singh Seechewal, focuses on multiple philanthropic endeavors, education being their primary concern. They promote education by establishing schools, providing scholarships, etc. They also contribute to healthcare initiatives by organizing health camps and providing support to hospitals and medical facilities.

Sikhs also engage in community development projects to address long-term challenges and upliftment of marginalized communities.

These initiatives include constructing homes, schools, and community centers, providing vocational training, and empowering women through skill development programs. For instance, The Sikh Helpline (based in the UK) provides support and assistance to individuals facing issues from substance abuse to domestic violence to overcome challenges and improve their lives.

Numerous Sikh organizations are dedicated to social service endeavours worldwide. Their contributions significantly support people on a global scale, reflecting the values and teachings of Sikhism. Their commitment to ‘seva’ serves as an inspiration to people of all backgrounds, promoting a more inclusive and compassionate world.

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-Top News Canada

Canada’s first turbaned Sikh MP honoured in Brampton

The honour for Malhi coincides with the Sikh Heritage Month, and it was presented to him by Mayor Patrick Brown at a ceremony in The Rose Brampton, Ontario….reports Asian Lite News

Gurbax Singh Malhi, the first turban-wearing Sikh elected to the House of Commons in Canada, was awarded the Key to the City of Brampton for his outstanding achievements as a trailblazer for the Sikh and South Asian community.

The Key to the City is a symbolic honour that the City of Brampton bestows upon a highly valued member of the community, or a celebrated or dignified guest of the City who has made an impact on the lives of people.

The honour for Malhi coincides with the Sikh Heritage Month, and it was presented to him by Mayor Patrick Brown at a ceremony in The Rose Brampton, Ontario.

Brampton honours Canada’s first turbaned Sikh MP Gurbax Malhi.(photo:Gurbax Singh Malhi/Facebook)



“We are grateful for the outstanding contributions of Gurbax Singh Malhi, and his unwavering commitment to inclusive policy making and community building. We are so very lucky to have this advocate in our city and we must celebrate those, like Malhi, who go above and beyond to create supportive, vibrant communities where all can be their best,” Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown said in a statement.

Born in a small village in Punjab in 1949, Malhi paved the way for the representation of turban-wearing individuals and minorities in Parliament and was a fierce advocate for diversity and inclusion.

Serving for 18 consecutive years as the Member of Parliament for Bramalea-Gore-Malton, Malhi helped open the doors for minorities, bringing a positive awareness to minorities of all ethnic backgrounds during a time when there was a lack of representation at the national level.

“I am deeply honoured to accept the key to the city, where I have lived and served for over 30 years. Service and the betterment of our community have been the cornerstone of everything that I do, it has been a privilege to give back – to a city, a province and a country that have given me and my family so much opportunity to reach heights that I never imagined possible,” Malhi said upon receiving the honour.

During the 1960s, while still in India, Malhi started actively participating in politics. In 1975, he and his family arrived in Canada where he quickly gained a reputation as someone who would offer a helping hand, a media release by City of Brampton stated.



Malhi’s objective as a politician was to fight for inclusion of all people that call Canada home, and to be reflective of the diverse ethnic backgrounds that co-exist in Canada, the release stated.

Recalling one of the many stories of racism and hardship in Canada as he canvassed his first election campaign in 1993, he said: “They would call me ‘Paki’. I was verbally abused and stigmatised as a lesser class of immigrant peoples. My goal was to eliminate this bias and politics was the means to achieve that.”

During his time in Parliament, Malhi held several notable positions, including minister of national revenue, minister of human resources and skills development, minister of industry, and minister of labour.

In 2021, Brampton’s Rhapsody Park in Burlwood Road was named after Malhi.

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-Top News UK News

Majority of Sikhs in UK reject Khalistan, says Blackman

London [UK], Mar 21 (ANI): United Kingdom MP Bob Blackman speaking at an all-parliamentary meeting in the UK , on Tuesday. (ANI Photo)

The Punjab Police were chasing Amritpal Singh, who has been declared a fugitive by the police, to nab him and his aides…reports Asian Lite News

Amid the ongoing rise in disruption of law and order by the extremist elements and the attack on the Indian consulate, the UK Conservative MP Bob Blackman on Monday said that the vast majority of Sikhs in the UK reject the Khalistani project.

He added that this is a very small section of society and that the authorities should deal with these elements properly and arrest them when such incidents occur. “This is a very small, ultra-small section of the Sikh community. The vast majority of Sikhs in this country absolutely reject the Khalistani project… It’s not going to happen as we know…My message is very simple to the police, when this happens, those people need to be arrested and dealt with properly,” UK MP Bob Blackman said in a statement at an all parliamentary meeting in the UK on Tuesday.

Blackman made the remarks after the Indian High Commission was vandalised by the separatist and extremist elements on Sunday against the crackdown on separatist elements in Punjab. He tweeted straight after the incident took place and wrote, “Disgraceful vandalism & disrespect to the flag of #India. My sympathies to the staff at the #IndianHighC Commission & @VDoraiswami in particular #JaiHind.”

The Punjab Police started the massive crackdown against Amritpal Singh and his aides on March 18. The police said that a total of 112 arrests have been made in the case so far, as 34 were arrested on Sunday, March 19. The police also said that the ‘Waris Punjab De’ chief Amritpal Singh was still on the run and a massive manhunt is launched to nab him.

The Punjab Police were chasing Amritpal Singh, who has been declared a fugitive by the police, to nab him and his aides.

However, the life of people in Punjab returned to normalcy amid the ongoing crackdown continued to nab ‘Waris Punjab De’ Chief Amritpal Singh, despite police force being deployed at many locations in the state to maintain law and order.

Internet and SMS services are still suspended across the state. The suspension of mobile internet, SMS, and dongle services will continue till noon today.

Earlier in Februray, Blackman told, “There is a small Sikh population which are promoting Khalistan and Khalistani, not quite terrorism, in the UK but certainly disorder and that has to be prevented as well: British MP Bob Blackman on Khalistan issue.”

This is not the first time that such an incident is taking place in London. Earlier in 2018, some elements burnt the Indian flag in Central London while the London Metropolitan Police quietly watched the flag burning taking place right before its eyes.

The incident took place at Parliament Square as Prime Minister Narendra Modi was addressing the Indian community at Westminster.

The Indian tricolour was allegedly pulled down and ripped apart by a pro-Khalistani activist. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among the 53 heads of Commonwealth nations attending the ongoing Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in London at that time. (ANI)

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-Top News Politics USA

Sikh concerns addressed under DOJ initiative

According to FBI, A total of 1,005 hate crimes related to religion were reported in 2021 in the US with Sikhs being the most targeted religious groups…reports Asian Lite News

Representatives of Sikh community from North Carolina’s Charlotte city met law enforcement officials in the US to find out ways to combat the rise in unlawful acts of hate.

The meeting, held on Sunday at the Gurdwara Khalsa Darbar in Charlotte, was the first of a series of planned outreach and educational events to be conducted as part of the Justice Department’s “United Against Hate” (UAH) initiative.

“People in communities across the Western District have the right to live their lives free from fear, violence, and intimidation. This fundamental right is guaranteed and protected by the Constitution. Unfortunately, certain groups are frequent targets of acts of hate and abuse,” said US Attorney Dena J. King.

“The purpose of this initiative is to protect our communities, educate members on their rights and the relevant law, provide an avenue for reporting hate crimes and incidents of hate, and increase trust in our criminal justice system,” King said in a justice department release.

The event featured a presentation by Assistant US Attorneys with experience in prosecuting hate crimes and civil rights violations, and law enforcement representatives with the FBI, and the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department.



The presenters facilitated a discussion with representatives of the Sikh community centered on hate crimes, including defining hate crimes versus hate incidents, according to the release.

The importance of reporting acts of hate to law enforcement; providing options for responding to hate incidents when situations do not constitute federal or state crimes, etc were also discussed.

“With the Office’s help, we have always been able to reach out to federal law enforcement for assistance with any challenge our community faces, whether it is school bullying, diversity training at the airport, security of the Gurdwara, or civil rights matters,” said Pushpinder Garcha, a representative of the United Sikhs.

The “United Against Hate” initiative was announced in September 2022 by the Justice Department as a national program to fight the rise of hate crimes in the Western District of North Carolina.

The initiative will have many events, including focusing on communities at risk of being targets of hate crimes. Each event will give participants an opportunity to directly connect with federal prosecutors and law enforcement to increase community understanding of hate crimes and hate incidents.

A total of 1,005 hate crimes related to religion were reported in 2021 in the US with Sikhs being the most targeted religious groups, according to statistics revealed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

Incidents related to religion comprised 14.2 per cent of incidents, the Hate Crime Statistics revealed. The largest categories of religion-based crime included anti-Jewish incidents at 31.9 per cent followed by anti-Sikh incidents at 21.3 per cent.

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