MDEC appoints Harjit Singh (left) and Ganesh Kumar Bangah as directors
By Asia Samachar | Malaysia |
Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) has appointed tax expert Harjit Singh and entrepreneur Ganesh Kumar Bangah as directors.
The government agency under the purview of the Ministry of Digital announced the appointments at its social media platforms today.
Harjit’s appointment is effective Jan 16, 2025 while Ganesh’s is effective Feb 1, 2025.
With over three decades of expertise in taxation, Harjit is an authority in corporate advisory, tax compliance, audits and investigations.
He is the founder/CEO of HSS Advisory Sdn Bhd whose core expertise includes tax services, tax audit services, as well as a wide range of corporate and management consultancy services. It caters to a diverse clientele ranging from family-owned businesses to publicly listed companies.
Harjit specialises in cross-border tax planning, GST, and SST, guiding businesses through the complexities of Malaysia’s tax frameworks. His strategic insights have enabled countless organisations to adapt to evolving tax regulations and thrive in the digital economy, according to a profile shared by the agency.
From 2004 to 2018, Harjit played a pivotal role as an adviser and tax agent at MDEC, contributing to its mission of fostering Malaysia’s digital growth.
He holds a Bachelor of Economics and Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Cardiff Metropolitan University, Wales, and is a licensed tax agent under Malaysia’s Ministry of Finance. He carries the title Datuk which he received from the state of Malacca in 2011.
On his part, Ganesh has been involved over 25 years as entrepreneur, investor and technology industry leader. Currently, he is the Executive Chairman at Xamble Group Limited, a publicly listed company in Australia that owns Nuffnang, one of the region’s largest influencer networks with a community of over 20,000 influencers.
The MDEC’s board of directors is led by Syed Ibrahim Syed Noh, the PKR Johor chairman and MP for Ledang. The ministry is led by Gobind Singh Deo.
MDEC was established in 1996 to lead Malaysia’s digital economy. The Government has introduced Malaysia Digital as the new national strategic initiative to encourage and attract companies, talents and investment while enabling Malaysian businesses and Rakyat to play a leading part in the global digital revolution and digital economy.
Malaysia Digital is the engine that accelerates the growth of our ecosystem within the nine promoted sectors; and drive digital adoption and opportunities in digital economy via the Malaysia Digital Catalytic Programmes (PeMangkinMD) and other competitive offerings. The 9 promoted sectors are Digital Agriculture, Digital Services, Digital Cities, Digital Health, Digital Finance, Digital Trade, Digital Content, Digital Tourism and Islamic Digital Economy.
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
Jasbiante Kaur (2nd from left) with her father Darshan Singh who partook the Khandey da Pahul Amrit in 1999, flanked by his wife and two other children. Left: The Kota Kinabalu Gurdwara at its official opening on Sept 27, 1924.
By Dr Jasbiante Kaur | Experience |
When it was time for pre-university, I went to Kuala Lumpur and it was here that Waheguruji blessed me to meet the beautiful people of Niketan.
Meeting other Gursikh women with dastaar made me immensely happy. I remember the times of samelans and sanggat programs where we would sit together and sing keertan and do Naam Simran at the top of our lungs! Hours and hours from Rehraas to sunrise! It was where my love for Saas Saas Simran and gatka (Sikh martial art) grew. My soul was brought to heights unknown to me. Immense bliss and happiness to be with people who love Waheguruji.
My time for university came at 19 and was blessed to go to Tamil Nadu, India to study dentistry.
Before going to India, Veer Jaswinderpal Singh (fondly called Jessy) taught me how to clean, sharpen and polish my Sarabloh Shasters and how to respect them. He gave me a thick and heavy Sarabloh Kara, a small Katar to hide in my dastaar and a sharp knuckle punch. His advice to me was “Don’t trust too easily … especially men.”
I stayed a night in SNSM Sabha House in Kuala Lumpur before departing for India. Ardaas was done to ask Guruji to protect me as my heart felt fear of the unknown. Gurujis Hukumnama came to me: “Aukhee Gharee Na Daykhan Deh, Apnaa Birdd Samhaley. Haath Deh Raakhey Apnay Kou, Saas Saas Pritpaaley.”
Tears filled my eyes, holding my luggage and marching to India, fearless.
On my first two-week university holiday in December 2008, it was my wish to go for yatra of the first three Takhts in Punjab. My first destination was Harmandir Sahib, Amritsar. No one was with me, everyone had left to go back to Malaysia. I was single woman, passport holder on a student visa travelling from Salem, Tamil Nadu to Punjab on a budget.
Smartphones didn’t then. I spoke broken Punjabi and terrible Tamil. There were two maps of India, a Punjabi English, Tamil English dictionary and a Nokia 3310 phone. Being on a student budget, my options were train rides, bus rides, bullock cart and tuk-tuk cars.
I remember collecting some beach sand from a construction nearby, polished each shastar given to me while listening to Chandi Di Vaar. Then came sharpening my 12-inch kirpaan in the girls dorm while reciting Japji and Chaupei Sahib, making sure it was sharp enough to cause internal organ damage in one strike. Placing the katar and a smaller kirpan in my Dastaar, wearing my 12-inch kirpaan with the heavy Sarabloh Kara on my left hand, standing up with my heart pounding for Ardaas.
Humbly asking Guruji to send Shaheedis to protect me on my journey. Mai Bhago ji and Mata Saheb Kaur ji’s image appeared before me in Ardaas sending shivers down my spine.
My humble supplication: if Waheguruji were to take my life in this journey, it was His will. Hence my life would have been lived purposefully. Giving the loudest war cry Jaikara, I exited my dorm with my huge luggage, confident and sure there were Shaheedis by my side.
A scene from the Bundu Tuhan Samelan 1997 – 1998, held at the foot of Mt Kinabalu at Bundu Tuhan in Ranau, Sabah. I see the youth vibrant and very involved in the activity. Everyone just admiring each other, looking up to and listening attentively our bhenjis, led by Andreeta Kaur. – Photo: Sourced by Jasbiante Kaur
The train and bus rides to Punjab took over 24 hours. Here I was, standing in front of Harmandir Sahib, tears in my eyes. I was HOME. There were many guides aware of my trip: my father, Pauji Serjit, Pauji Raja, Jija Pritam, Veer Jessy, and many beautiful guides Waheguruji would send along the way.
Waheguruji’s watchful eyes, the presence of my Gurus and Shaheedis were undeniably protecting me through the journey. Miracle upon miracles happened throughout my journey.
My two years in India was magic and miracles beyond words.
THIRD YEAR, PENANG
For the third year in dentistry, I continued my studies in Penang, Malaysia. However, at 23, my challenge began.
When the time of challenge and suffering comes, we must walk it through until Waheguruji says it’s done.
Facing with health, financial, personal and family issues, by the will of Waheguruji, suffering was my companion, followed by depression, mental torture and anxiety. Feeling separated from Guru and Sanggat, my heart felt immense pain from within and years went by.
Jasbiante Kaur (far right, white dupatta) at the Melaka Sant Sipahi Camp organised by Niketan in December 2008. Joining the Naam Simran Semagam.
A window of happiness was when I met my husband-to-be and married at 30 and having two beautiful children.
Then grief became a friend when we lost many family members to Covid, the risk of loss of income, losing my mother to cancer, and then losing a child brought me to my knees.
Grief and suffering are holy teachers that come to show you who you truly are. At that point, deepest sorrow and deepest pain was my liberation.
In the pitch darkness. The calling voice told me to “look up, look up, look up..” and there is Light above me. For there is nothing lower, and nothing higher, than the obliteration of the ego self.
In the mercy of Your feet Waheguruji, we are small. You are Great, Benevolent and Merciful. Waheguruji’s hand saved me from the pit of darkness and showed me LIGHT.
Waheguruji showed me what it truly means to say:
“Dukh Daruu, Sukh Rog Bheaa, Ja sukh Tam na hoee” “Tu Karta Karna, Mai Nahee, Ja hau keri na hoee”
Through these sacred and powerful years of suffering, You, the sanggat, never left me. There would be frequent dreams of hearing distant prayers of people asking “Where are you?” There would be semagems in my dreams where Veerji Rashvinder’s glowing face would say “Come, sing with me.” Sometimes, Veerji Dheeraj would be passing by in his majestic bana and shaster filled Dumala. Occasionally, the Panj Pyare would be present, dressed in simple shirt and slacks, smiling at me as I serve degh to them. The many bhenji and paujis will be present in beauty. The calls from within never stopped. Thank you for all your prayers.
TIME TO FLY
It is heard form within..
“It is time. It is time to come home, no more hiding. It Is time to fly.”
Early 2024, we had planned to come to the Annual Gurmat Parchaar Samelan. Saving up for the trip for 4 people from Tawau, Sabah to Kuala Lumpur was a challenge, but we got through. It was important for my children to meet and experience the sanggat as well.
It was while treating a patient that news came to me that Veerji Sukhinderpal Singh has just passed away. It had been too long. We had planned to see him in samelan this year, present my kids to him, have him lovingly slap my face for not coming to samelan for too long.
When I reached home, my heart cried in regret and pain. My heart went into grief again. A beautiful bird with a very prominent pink beak visited my home that day. Its prominent beak reminded me so much of Veerji’s beautiful prominent nose. This bird stayed a while in my house but passed away the next day. Reminding me, it is Waheguruji’s will. Life and death are in His hands.
Just a few months later, Father ji [Dr Jasbir Singh] passed on. My heart felt so heavy with shock and grief. Father ji had visited Sabah many times. He would sit right in front of the keertan stage and would listen to Keertan and Katha with eyes closed and a face glowing like a lamp.
I was 15 years old when, after singing keertan, Fatherji met me outside and patted my head saying “Keep on doing keertan seva, Betty, keep on singing. You have a beautiful voice.” To a young Sabahan teen like me, his words of inspiration fired me to sing more.
I attended his saskaar (cremation) in Kuala Lumpur. Tears flowed as both Veerji Sukhinderpal ji and Fatherji embraced in Waheguruji’s Light. Their passing was like a solemn celebration. With one end in tears, grief, loss and the other end in trumpets, nagaras, celestial music and angels singing in Waheguruji’s light welcoming them home.
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
With heavy hearts, we say goodbye to a cherished husband, proud father, best grandfather and everlasting great grandfather. He was a man of great wisdom, warmth and unwavering kindness who brought joy to everyone he met. He encouraged his children to pursue careers of their choice and was a source of strength to all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered for the love he brought into our lives.
Wife: Sarjit Kaur Sandhu d/o Late Mahain Singh
Children and Spouses
Kuldip Kaur Sran and Ian James Kirkpatrick
Amarjit Kaur Sran and Dr. Bhagwan Singh Sran
Sukhdev Kaur Sran and Amarpal Singh Bhojwal
Dr. Harvinder Singh Sran and Kirendeep Kaur Sidhu Brar
Kiranjit Kaur Sran and Jasvinder Singh Kang
Grandchildren and Spouses
Dr. Shereen Kaur Sran and Dr. Navinder Singh Sidhu
Dr. Rasween Singh Sran and Dr. Alysharoop Kaur Gill
Dr. James Ravi Kirkpatrick
Dr. Andrew Raj Kirkpatrick
Sunita Rani Kirkpatrick
Kaushalynn Kaur Bhojwal
Jas Simran Kaur Sran
Taranishta Kaur Bhojwal
Jasdill Singh Sran
Simrat Kaur Kang
Great Grandchildren
Raanveer Singh Sidhu
Rajjveer Singh Sidhu
Rohanveer Singh Sidhu
LAST RITES 29 January 2025 (Wednesday) 10am: Cortege leaves residence at No. 17, Persiaran Batu Hampar, Batu View Gardens, Batu Caves, 68100, Kuala Lumpur 11am: Visitation at Jalan Loke Yew Crematorium, KL 12pm: Cremation (saskaar) at Jalan Loke Yew Crematorium, KL
Contact number Dr Harvinder singh 016 558 5480 Mr Jasvinder singh 012 232 1073 Dr Bhagwan singh 012 278 4100
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
As a social and physical being, I have an identity, one that is shaped by my British Panjabi Sikh heritage. My ancestral homeland is Panjab, and my cultural roots run deep within its history, traditions, and language. And as many will know. I am extremely proud of my Panjabi identity and have long campaigned for the political unity and autonomy for the Panjab, both India occupied East and Pakistani occupied West.
Yet, when I reflect on my spiritual essence, I find that it transcends all geographical and cultural borders, which are clearly man made. My spiritual identity does not confine itself to a single nation, ethnicity, or religion. My spiritual home is not a piece of land, even if this were to incorporate the whole of the Earth; it is the vastness of the universe itself.
This quest for the realisation of a universal unbounded identity brings forth an important truth for me. And that is that a truly universal power, which Sikhi refers to as Akaal Purakh (the Timeless One), could/would not invest in human-made social constructs, such as, nation, religion, nationalism, ethnicity, gender, race, or caste. These distinctions, while serving various political interests and societal functions, are ultimately superficial in the face of a deeper, unifying reality.
The renowned cosmologist Carl Sagan once said, “The cosmos is within us. We are made of star-stuff. We are a way for the universe to know itself.” His words point to a profound truth: everything in existence is interconnected. The elements that form our bodies were once part of distant stars, and the very matter that composes the universe also composes us. This scientific perspective beautifully aligns with spiritual wisdom across traditions, particularly the Sikh understanding of Ik Oankaar, or ‘all is one!’
If our physical forms are mere fragments of this vast oneness of the cosmos, then it follows that our consciousness, too, cannot be entirely separate; we are all connected to a vast network of cosmic energy. Despite our perception of individuality, our minds and spirits are fundamentally interconnected aspects of the whole. The separation we feel is an illusion, a veil that obscures the deeper truth of unity.
Though we often associate Sikhs with outward religious symbols and practices, whilst these may represent a celebration of our various cultural identities, for me the essence of Sikh identity is the realisation of this unity or oneness. Gurbani (the Sikh scriptural wisdom) repeatedly reminds us that the divine presence is not found in external rituals or dogmas, but within ourselves. Bhagat Peepa Ji, in Raag Dhanaasree (Guru Granth Sahib, p. 695), proclaims:
“ਜੋ ਬ੍ਰਹਮੰਡੇ ਸੋਇ ਪਿੰਡੇ, ਜੋ ਖੋਜੈ ਸੋ ਪਾਵੈ॥” “That which pervades the universe also dwells in the body; whoever seeks that universal entity, finds it within.”
This verse emphasizes that the divine is not a distant, external force; it is present within us, just as it is present in the entirety of creation. The journey of spirituality is thus not about seeking something outside of ourselves, but rather about realizing and awakening to the divine presence that already exists within.
Despite this underlying unity, human beings continue to divide themselves along lines of race, religion, nationality, and ideology. These divisions fuel conflict, suffering, and a sense of alienation. Yet, when we truly internalize the understanding of Ik Oankaar, these barriers begin to dissolve. We see ourselves not as isolated individuals, but as interconnected expressions of the same divine reality.
At the heart of all wisdom, both scientific and spiritual, is the understanding that we are part of something far greater than ourselves. Whether we view this through the lens of astrophysics or Sikh philosophy, the message is clear: we are not separate. We are threads in the vast tapestry of existence, each woven into the fabric of the divine. But sadly, though most religions claim to be divinely inspired, most followers are hopelessly divided over material differences.
Ultimately the challenge to associate oneself with a universal divine consciousness requires us to move beyond our cultural identities and when we do the rewards are so much greater that the fake pleasures of ethnic, racial, national and religious pride.
The great 11th Century Sufi Sheik Baba Farid quoted in the Guru Granth Sahib ji (p1392) captures this quest in the simples words possible.
“ਫਰੀਦਾ ਜੇ ਤੂ ਮੇਰਾ ਹੋਇ ਰਹਹਿ ਸਭੁ ਜਗੁ ਤੇਰਾ ਹੋਇ ॥੯੫॥ O Fareed, if you will be mine, the whole universe will be yours.””||95||
Gurnam Singh is an academic activist dedicated to human rights, liberty, equality, social and environmental justice. He is an Associate Professor of Sociology at University of Warwick, UK. He can be contacted at Gurnam.singh.1@warwick.ac.uk
* This is the opinion of the writer and does not necessarily represent the views of Asia Samachar.
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
Retired teacher, last served at SMK Gombak Setia (Formerly from Penang)
With heavy hearts, we say goodbye to a cherished husband, father, brother, grandfather, teacher and friend. He was a man of great wisdom, warmth, and unwavering kindness who brought joy to everyone he met. Always ready with a joke, a kind word, or thoughtful advice, he was someone you could always count on— no matter the time or need.
As a devoted teacher, he inspired and touched the lives of many that will be felt for generations. Beyond the classroom, his presence was a source of strength and comfort to all who knew him.
He will be deeply missed but forever remembered for the love, laughter and light brought into our lives.
Wife: Harpajan Khor Father: Late Mahindar Singh Sidhu Mother: Late Gurdip Kaur Sidhu
Siblings / Spouses: Sarjit Singh Sidhu Late Kalmit Singh Sidhu Late Jasbir Singh Sidhu Jaspal Kaur Sidhu / Surinder Singh
Children / Spouses: Harkiran Kaur / Sukdev Singh P. Sunil Singh / Simretdeep Kaur
Will also be missed by nieces, nephews & grandchildren
LAST RITES 28 January 2025 (Tuesday) Jalan Loke Yew Crematorium, Kuala Lumpur 9.30 am to 11.30 am: Visitation 11.30am: Saskaar (cremation)
PATH DA BHOG: 2 February 2025 (Sunday) Gurdwara Sahib Sentul, KL, From 5pm – 7pm
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
By Harry (Harjinder) Singh is a Silicon Valley tech entrepreneur, the founder of SecureX.AI, and a Sikh immigrant.
By Harry (Harjinder) Singh | United States |
Immigrants built America, and America shaped its immigrants. This line captures the essence of the symbiotic relationship between the United States and those who come here seeking opportunity. Immigrants drive the economy, spark innovation, and create jobs. This isn’t just about diversity—it’s about securing America’s future.
America, created in 1776, was arguably the greatest startup idea in history. Today, as a 248-year-old enterprise, it continues to be a beacon of innovation and opportunity. Immigrants have been at the heart of this success story, shaping industries, creating millions of jobs, and driving technological advancements. Silicon Valley, where I’ve had the privilege of building companies, is a testament to this.
Elon Musk, a South African-born visionary, arrived in North America as a student and transitioned to an H-1B—a visa category that lets U.S. employers hire foreign workers in specialty occupations. He built companies, including Tesla and SpaceX, that have redefined industries. Musk’s defense of the H-1B program is emphatic: “The reason I’m in America along with so many critical people who built SpaceX, Tesla, and hundreds of other companies that made America strong is because of H-1B. I will go to war on this issue the likes of which you cannot possibly comprehend.”
As a startup founder, I’ve witnessed firsthand how the first 50 technical hires at most technology companies—immigrants included—go on to create products and platforms that employ millions, strengthen our military’s technological edge, and improve lives globally. None of this would have been possible without the contributions of skilled immigrants.
President-elect Donald Trump recently reiterated his support for legal immigration, calling the H-1B visa a “great program” that ensures America continues to attract the best talent globally. “That’s why we have them,” Trump told the New York Post, signaling his commitment to maintaining America’s competitive edge. His alignment with Musk’s advocacy for recruitment flexibility underscores a shared understanding of what’s at stake: America’s technological dominance.
In 2017, I penned an article criticizing certain aspects of Trump’s immigration rhetoric. At the time, the nuances between legal and illegal immigration were unclear to me. As an immigrant and a member of a minority group, I reacted emotionally, as many did. However, I now recognize and appreciate Trump’s longstanding support for legal immigration and its role in America’s success.
As a Sikh immigrant and Silicon Valley entrepreneur, I’ve witnessed the transformative power of legal immigration. My work in cybersecurity and national security has not only created jobs but also fortified America’s digital defenses.
Programs like H-1B bring in skilled workers who fuel economic growth, create jobs for Americans, and drive technological advancements. Legal immigration isn’t just a policy; it’s a strategy for long-term success. Immigrants are not just workers; they are visionaries, creators, and leaders. From Silicon Valley’s boardrooms to America’s farmlands, they’ve proven time and again that opportunity and ambition are America’s greatest resources.
The Sikh community’s journey exemplifies immigrant perseverance. From the early 1900s, when Sikhs first settled in California, serving in the military, and excelling in fields like technology and business, Sikhs have woven themselves into America’s fabric. During World War I, a Sikh soldier became the first U.S. military member to be granted the right to wear a turban while on active duty. In 1956, the first Sikh was elected to Congress.
The first IPO by an Indian immigrant in the United States was accomplished by Narinder Singh Kapany, a visionary Sikh scientist considered the “father of fiber optics,” in 1967 on Nasdaq. This trailblazing achievement was followed by several other remarkable Punjabi Sikhs: Jugi Tandon (Tandon Corp., IPO in 1981); Kanwal Singh Rekhi and Inder Mohan Singh (Excelan, IPO in 1987); and Prithipal Singh (Chemtrak, IPO in 1992). Remarkably, these groundbreaking public offerings were all spearheaded by members of the small but resilient Sikh community from Punjab, India.
Such milestones highlight the perseverance and contributions of Sikhs in America. I’m proud to contribute to this legacy. As a cybersecurity entrepreneur, my work strengthens America’s digital defenses and secures its future. Immigrants like me are proof that America’s openness to talent pays dividends for generations.
Immigration isn’t just a demographic issue; it’s a policy lever that fuels economic growth, secures national defense, and sustains global leadership. Legal pathways like H-1B visas enable American companies to compete globally, innovate locally, and strengthen the economy. Trump’s outspoken support for legal immigration bodes well for America’s future. It ensures that industries will continue to innovate and contribute to the nation’s economic growth.
Reflecting on my earlier critique of Trump, I’ve come to realize the importance of separating political rhetoric from actionable policies. Over the years, I’ve seen how he’s consistently supported pathways that empower immigrants to contribute legally and meaningfully. My work in national security, cybersecurity, and technology has only deepened my understanding of how critical these contributions are to America’s strength and resilience.
As we approach the 250th anniversary of this nation, let us honor its founding principles by embracing those who build its future.
The article first appeared in Fortune. Click here for the original entry.
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
The UN Human Rights Council has publicly called for the government of India to stop targeting Sikh activists in Canada, the United States and other countries and has accused India of multiple human rights violations in a newly released report from UNHRC special rapporteurs.
In response to a formal complaint filed on behalf of the family of Canadian citizen Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was allegedly assassinated by agents of the government of India outside of a Gurdwara, a Sikh place of worship in Surrey, BC in 2023, several Special Rapporteurs of the UNHRC responded by raising concerns about Nijjar’s assassination and threats to other Canadian Sikh activists.
The report, dated November 19, 2024, was first made public last week on January 18, 2025.
“We also draw attention to allegations of other credible threats to life and measures of intimidation and harassment against Sikh activists outside India,” the letter states. “Such activities may involve violations of the human rights to life, security of person, freedom of opinion and expression, freedom of religion or belief, and minority rights.
The report outlined Nijjar’s advocacy related to politics and human rights including Sikh self-determination, Sikh human rights in India, the persecution of Sikh activists and support for other minority groups.
The Special Rapporteurs also chronicle the timeline of events leading up to Nijjar’s killing, including interactions with RCMP and CSIS, who were aware of threats against him.
The UNHRC goes on to note Nijjar was not the only activist being targeted by Modi’s government, highlighting concerns over “systematic attacks by the Indian authorities on Sikh activists in Canada, the United States, and other countries, including private and public harassment and intimidation, threats of violence and death, and the planning of physical attacks.”
“This campaign appears to be aimed at preventing them from continuing their legitimate activities as activists, including criticism of the Indian Government, and at impairing the legitimate exercise of the right to freedom of expression.”
The report goes on to say that if the allegations are proven true, this would represent the violation of several human rights, including the right to life, the right to security of person, including bodily and mental integrity, freedom from unlawful attacks on one’s honour and freedom from arbitrary or unlawful interference in the family, freedom of religion or belief, freedom of opinion and expression and more.
“We are concerned that these allegations are part of a pattern of transnational repression of Sikh activists in multiple countries.”
Moninder Singh, National Spokesperson for Sikh Federation says the UNHRC’s response “shows Hardeep Singh in a proper light” and verifies much of what activists in Canada have been expressing concern about for some time.
“It’s something Canada has been saying and it’s been verified again by another international agency through the UN and its Human Rights Commission that he was a Sikh leader in Canada propagating the cause for Khalistan,” Singh told PressProgress.
“Then India used transnational repression, they used laws like the Unlawful Activities Protection Act (UAPA) and anti-terror law to suppress Mr. Nijjar, to harass his family in India and to designate him a terrorist under false implications is what the report says.”
The UNHRC report also highlights the human rights component to foreign interference.
“One of the things that we can get out of this report is pressure put on India. We made the approach to Bob Rae as the ambassador of Canada to the UN to comment on this report, but it’s also going to come forward in March at the sitting of the UN,” Singh noted.
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
