NEW DELHI: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has shifted attention to combatting Sikh separatism, citing security and political concerns, according to officials and experts. While the movement for a Sikh homeland in northern India was suppressed decades ago, recent global incidents, such as accusations of Indian officials’ involvement in assassination plots against Sikh separatist leaders in North America, have brought the issue to the forefront.
The accusations, vehemently denied by New Delhi, have strained diplomatic relations with the United States and Canada. Indian security officials argue that cracking down on what they perceive as Sikh connections to overseas crime is necessary, linked to the Sikh heartland of Punjab. However, Sikh nationalists reject these claims, asserting that Modi aims to dismantle their leadership and rally his Hindu base.
Critics of Modi argue that he is exploiting the Sikh separatism issue for political gain, especially after facing significant opposition from Sikh farmers that led to the rollback of agricultural reforms. Sikh separatists advocate for the creation of Khalistan, a homeland in Punjab, where Sikhs form a majority. Despite comprising less than 2% of India’s population, the issue remains politically significant.
While some security officials view Khalistan as a “dead horse,” concerns persist about fundraising abroad, training activities, and simmering socio-economic issues in Punjab, including unemployment and drug use. Modi’s strongman image, built on a robust national security posture, continues to play a crucial role in his political narrative.
Kanwarpal Singh from the Dal Khalsa group, advocating for Khalistan, rejects claims of links to crime and drugs, asserting that Modi’s government seeks to “defame, isolate, and eliminate” Sikh separatist leaders. Critics argue that the BJP exaggerates the Khalistan problem for political motives, attempting to mobilize the Hindu population.
As tensions linger, the Sikh separatism issue remains a complex intersection of security considerations and political strategy for Modi’s government.
