Subject: Assessing the Economic, Religious, and Socioeconomic Imperatives for Supporting State Separation within the Indian Union, with a Specific Focus on Punjab and its Implications for U.S. Foreign Policy.

Executive Summary

This article presents an argument for the economic benefits of separating various Indian states from the current Indian Union, highlighting the severe religious and socioeconomic injustices faced by the Sikh community in Punjab. Drawing on evidence from historical events, economic data, and current political analyses, it argues that India, despite its democratic claims, exhibits characteristics of an authoritarian state with Hindu supremacist tendencies, necessitating a reassessment of the United States' foreign policy towards the region. The establishment of independent states, particularly Khalistan for Sikhs, is proposed as a means to foster economic self-determination, rectify historical grievances, and enhance regional stability by potentially creating buffer zones between historically tense nations.

1. Introduction: Reassessing the Indian Union

The underlying internal dynamics within India, particularly concerning economic disparities and the treatment of minority groups, warrant international attention and a re-evaluation of engagement strategies. This paper contends that the current structure of the Indian Union may be economically detrimental to certain states and perpetuates significant injustices against religious minorities, particularly Sikhs, making the concept of state separation, such as the establishment of Khalistan, a viable and beneficial alternative from an economic, human rights, and geopolitical perspective.

2. Economic Disparities and the Case for State Economic Autonomy

India's economic landscape, while projected for growth, faces structural challenges that hinder its long-term ambitions to become a developed nation by 2047, requiring an annual growth rate of 8% or more. The national GDP growth is estimated at 6.4% in 2024-25, and while the services sector drives more than half of India's GDP, manufacturing lags. Foreign businesses are often frustrated by inconsistent policies, complex regulations, protectionism, and high tariffs. India's share of international trade remains low at 1.8%, and its support for indigenous businesses can stifle competition and deter foreign investment.

Specific to Punjab, the state's economic growth has consistently lagged behind the national average since 2013-14.

• Punjab's Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) growth is projected to decline from 6.2% in 2023-24 to 6.0% in 2024-25, while India's overall GDP growth is expected to slow from 8.2% to 6.4% in the same period.

• Punjab's share of India's GDP, which peaked at 4.4% in 1970-71 (largely due to the Green Revolution), has significantly declined to 2.4% by 2023-24. In contrast, Haryana, which was once behind Punjab, has seen its share rise to 3.6% and its relative per capita income surpass Punjab's.

• Punjab's per capita income has seen a notable decline after the 2000s, reaching 106.7% of the national average in 2023-24, down from its peak of 169% in 1970-71. This contrasts sharply with states like Delhi and Haryana, which have notably performed well, and southern and western states like Karnataka, Telangana, Maharashtra, and Gujarat, which have emerged as economic powerhouses, especially post-1991 economic liberalization.

• The question arises of whether Punjab's agricultural focus contributed to a "Dutch disease," hindering industrialization.

The central government's approach to Punjab's challenges has been "security-first" rather than addressing underlying economic and environmental issues. For instance, farmer protests against new farm laws (which aimed to corporatize agriculture and were feared by farmers as jeopardizing their livelihoods) were met with state oppression, arrests, internet blockades, and were falsely branded as a "national security threat" linked to the Khalistani movement by the BJP and media. This securitization diverts blame from failed economic policies and harms vulnerable populations.

From an economic standpoint, allowing states greater autonomy or separation could enable them to tailor economic policies to local needs, foster industries, and manage resources (like river waters, a major concern for Punjab). This could potentially lead to more equitable development and prevent the "Dutch disease" phenomena observed in Punjab.

3. Religious and Socioeconomic Marginalization of Sikhs

The Sikh community faces profound religious and socioeconomic injustices within India, which often serve as a basis for calls for self-determination.

• Erosion of Sikh Identity and Legal Discrimination:

    ◦ The Indian constitution, specifically Article 25b, controversially declares Sikhs to be Hindus. This constitutional definition forces Sikhs to adhere to Hindu laws, including the Hindu Marriage Act, Succession Act, Minority and Guardianship Act, and Adoption and Maintenance Act. This is viewed by Sikhs as an intentional misrepresentation and defamation of their distinct religious identity by Hindu supremacists.

    ◦ Hindu supremacists are accused of appropriating Sikh history, claiming Sikh Gurus sacrificed themselves for the "Indian state" rather than for universal freedom of religion or in defiance of Mughal rule. This includes misrepresenting the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur and Guru Gobind Singh's younger children.

    ◦ The rise of the RSS and BJP is seen as turning India into a "Hindu Fascist State" that promotes the supremacy of Hindu philosophy and culture, leading to the potential marginalization or categorization of other religious groups as "second-class citizens" or "Hindus".

• Historical and Ongoing Persecution and Violence:

    ◦ 1955 Attack on Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple): On July 4, 1955, the Indian army attacked the Golden Temple, killing over 200 Sikhs and arresting over 12,000, in an attempt to suppress the movement for a Punjabi-speaking state.

    ◦ Operation Blue Star (June 1984): The Indian State invaded Sri Harmandir Sahib and surrounding Gurdwaras, purposefully destroying the Akal Takht with tanks and bombs, resulting in approximately 200 Sikh deaths. This act was aimed at eliminating the political power of Sikhs. Some sources suggest this military operation was more driven by the economic threat posed by the farmers' movement than by sporadic Khalistan threats.

    ◦ 1984 Sikh Genocide: Following Indira Gandhi's assassination, a "well-organized plan" orchestrated by "important politicians of the Indian National Congress party and authorities" led to the killing of over 30,000 Sikhs (mostly burnt alive) and the displacement of over 200,000 across multiple Indian states from October 31 to November 4, 1984. Horrific acts included gang rapes of Sikh women, burning of Gurdwaras and Guru Granth Sahibs, and the killing of Sikh soldiers and children. The organizers and perpetrators of this genocide reportedly continue to "roam free and even enjoy positions of power," with ten commissions failing to bring justice.

    ◦ Transnational Repression: There is a documented rise in transnational repression against U.S. persons from India. Preliminary investigations suggest that individuals associated with the Government of India may have orchestrated the 2023 attempted assassination of Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a prominent Sikh activist in New York, to silence his criticism and advocacy for Khalistan. This follows the successful assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada in June 2023, for which Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau cited credible allegations of Indian involvement. Hindu American Foundation (HAF), an organization described as a key part of the global Hindu supremacist movement, has echoed the BJP's talking points defending these assassination attempts and has been accused of smearing farmer protests as a "conspiracy of Khalistani separatists".

• Suppression of Dissent: The Indian government employs a "security-first approach" to internal issues, framing political economy problems as "national security threats" to justify extraordinary responses like declaring states of emergency or deploying paramilitary forces, often targeting vulnerable populations along ethnic and religious lines. This includes the use of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) to criminalize dissent and maintain unlawful detention of Sikh political prisoners. 

4. The Case for Sikh Self-Determination (Khalistan)

Sikhs have historically sought self-governance and have agitated for Khalistan since India's independence in 1947. They were reportedly convinced by Nehru and Gandhi to join India based on vague promises of "autonomy" and "the glow of freedom" for Punjab, which were later revoked. The concept of Khalistan is presented as the epitome of "equality, justice, and liberty".

• Religious and Political Sovereignty: For Sikhs, political sovereignty is seen as the "only feasible long-term solution" to reclaim religious sovereignty and narrate their own history free from state censorship and misrepresentation.

• Protection from a Hostile State: The formation of a separate state is viewed as a necessary step for Sikhs in hostile environments where trust in the existing state for their safety is not possible.

• Democratic Aspiration: The 2021 referendum for Khalistan, held in Punjab and globally, is cited as evidence of the Sikhs' desire for an independent, democratic country, challenging India's claim of being the world's largest democracy. The current Indian government's actions are deemed "not in line with a democratic country".

5. Implications for U.S. Foreign Policy and Regional Stability

The documented challenges within India and the specific grievances of the Sikh community present several implications for U.S. foreign policy:

• Upholding Democratic Values vs. Strategic Partnership: The U.S. maintains a bilateral relationship with India based on shared interests in a stable and prosperous region, but this relationship should be founded on shared values of democratic institutions, human rights, and respect for international law. Acts of transnational repression, religious discrimination, and the suppression of dissent violate these foundational values and undermine national sovereignty.

• Sanctions and Accountability: The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) designated India as a "Country of Particular Concern (CPC)" in 2020 due to "systematic, ongoing, and egregious violations" of religious freedom. USCIRF recommended targeted sanctions against Indian government agencies and officials, denying U.S. visas and freezing U.S.-based assets of those responsible for gross human rights violations, including through the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act.

• Regional Stability and Buffer States: Supporting the establishment of Khalistan could create a buffer country between India and Pakistan, potentially mitigating long-standing tensions between these nuclear-armed neighbors. India's close ties with Pakistan are seen by some Indian observers as a complicating factor in the UK's relationship with India.

• Counterbalancing Authoritarianism: The administration should  consider sanctioning Modi's BJP administration and its cronies to "bring India back into the mainstream of nations" and to abolish Hindutva, likening this to the successful abolition of apartheid through coordinated international sanctions. Partnering with Sikhs and other "democracy-loving people to establish Khalistan" is suggested as a step to "bring stability in Southeast Asia".

6. Recommendations for the Trump White House

Given the economic stagnation in Punjab, the historical and ongoing persecution of Sikhs, and India's increasingly authoritarian trajectory under the influence of Hindu supremacist ideologies, the following policy considerations are recommended for the White House:

• Adopt the CPC Designation: Formally adopt the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF)'s designation of India as a "Country of Particular Concern," signaling a strong commitment to religious freedom as a core foreign policy tenet.

• Impose Targeted Sanctions: Implement targeted economic sanctions against leading members of the BJP and RSS groups implicated in human rights violations, and impose travel bans on such officials, utilizing mechanisms like the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act.

• Support Self-Determination Efforts: Actively support the call for self-determination referendums in regions facing severe human rights abuses and economic marginalization, specifically in Punjab, as a means to foster genuine democratic governance and regional stability.

• Publicly Condemn Transnational Repression: Issue strong public condemnations of the acts of transnational repression originating from India, such as the attempted assassination of Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, emphasizing that such actions violate national sovereignty and democratic principles.

• Re-evaluate Economic Engagement: Condition robust economic partnerships and trade deals with India on demonstrable improvements in human rights, religious freedom, and internal economic equity, rather than solely pursuing economic benefits that may inadvertently legitimize authoritarian tendencies.

• Strengthen Engagement with Minority Communities: Increase direct engagement with Sikh and other minority communities in India and the diaspora, including through the U.S. Embassy and consulates, to understand their concerns and provide support against discriminatory policies and practices. This includes pressing for the repeal of laws like the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) and the release of Sikh political prisoners.

By taking these decisive actions, the United States can uphold its commitment to democracy and human rights globally, foster greater economic equity, and potentially contribute to a more stable and just geopolitical landscape in South Asia.

The aspiration for an independent state of Khalistan within the current geographical boundaries of India is driven by a strong sense of distinct Sikh identity and a history marked by injustices and unmet promises, all while firmly upholding the principle that Sikhs do not believe in racial superiority, and envisioning a future Khalistan that is open and inclusive to all its inhabitants.

The foundation of the Khalistan movement lies in the belief that Sikhs possess a unique religious and cultural identity, separate from Hinduism. This distinctiveness, Sikhs argue, is undermined by the Indian state, which, through Article 25b of its constitution, declares Sikhs to be Hindus and mandates Hindu personal laws for the Sikh community. These misrepresentation and encroachment on their religious autonomy fuels the desire for self-determination.

The historical context is crucial. In 1947, during India's independence, promises of significant self-autonomy were made to Punjab in exchange for joining the union, promises often referred to as the "glow of freedom". However, these assurances were revoked soon after independence, leading to a profound sense of betrayal and the initiation of the struggle for Khalistan.  Since then, Sikhs have experienced systemic setbacks and violence, including the alleged diversion of Punjab's river waters, economic marginalization, and an erosion of their distinct identity. Landmark events like the attack on Sri Harmandir Sahib in 1955 and the devastating events of June 1984 are  forceful interventions by the Indian state against the Sikh community and their religious center, underscoring a lack of respect for their rights and aspirations. The Sikh doctrine of Miri and Piri embodies the synthesis of spiritual and temporal authority, inherently suggesting a Sikh right to political power and self-governance, further fueling the desire for an independent state.

Crucially, the pursuit of Khalistan is not based on any notion of racial superiority. The Sikh faith emphasizes the initiate nature of every being to achieve purity through remembrance of the One, a concept antithetical to racial hierarchy. Therefore, the envisioned Khalistan is not intended to be an ethno-state based on racial exclusivity but rather a sovereign entity where all residents, irrespective of their religious, cultural, or ethnic background, can live with equality, justice, and liberty. The aim is to create a state where the Sikh identity and faith can flourish without the threat of assimilation or misrepresentation, while ensuring the rights and freedoms of all who reside within its borders.

Proponents of Khalistan argue that political sovereignty is the indispensable long-term solution to safeguard the Sikh faith, preserve its accurate representation, and protect the community from state interference. They believe that only in their own state can Sikhs fully exercise religious sovereignty, control their historical narrative, and possess the resources necessary to maintain and promote their unique culture and identity.

Contemporary issues within India, such as the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC), have been criticized for their potentially discriminatory implications for religious minorities, though the CAA explicitly includes Sikhs as religious minorities eligible for fast-track citizenship. However, broader concerns about the rise of Hindu supremacist ideologies and actions further strengthen the argument for some Sikhs that their interests and identity cannot be fully secured within the existing Indian framework.

The path towards Khalistan is envisioned by many to be through peaceful and democratic means, such as referendums, to ascertain the will of the Sikh people. They believe that international recognition and support from nations committed to religious freedom and human rights are vital in realizing their right to self-determination. The designation of India as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) by the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) due to concerns about religious freedom lends weight to the arguments for protecting minority rights, potentially through the establishment of an independent Khalistan that is founded on principles of equality and open to all.

In summary, the demand for Khalistan in the present-day territory of India is a pursuit of self-determination and religious freedom, rooted in historical grievances and a distinct Sikh identity. This aspiration is firmly grounded in the Sikh principle of the equality of all humanity, rejecting any notion of racial superiority, and envisions a future sovereign state that is inclusive and guarantees justice and liberty for every resident.

The bombing of Air India Flight 182 remains a scar on the collective memory of both India and Canada. While Indian agents have repeatedly blamed Sikh separatists for this tragedy, mounting evidence suggests a darker truth: the involvement of India's Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) in the attack. The question must be asked: Did India sacrifice its own citizens for political gain?

Evidence of Indian Interference:

•Disinformation campaigns: Indian intelligence has a history of disseminating disinformation to discredit the Sikh separatist movement. This included fabricating stories of terrorist training camps and exaggerating the threat posed by Sikh activists in Canada.

•Infiltration and manipulation: RAW, India's spy agency, has been known to infiltrate Sikh organizations, posing as Sikh loyalists, and creating radical movements to discredit the World Sikh Organization (WSO).

•Suspect actions: Surinder Malik, an Indian consul general in Toronto, spread disinformation following the Air India bombing, pointing to Sikh terrorists as the culprits. Malik had close ties to Indian intelligence networks and provided information that proved to be a "fruitless trail".

Cui Bono?

The question of who benefits from a crime is crucial. While the bombing served to demonize the Sikh separatist movement, it also provided India with a pretext to crack down on Sikh activism both at home and abroad. The attack galvanized international condemnation of Sikh separatists, strengthening India's position.

A call for accountability

If RAW was involved in the Air India bombing, it represents a betrayal of the Indian people and a violation of international law. The pursuit of political objectives can never justify the killing of innocent civilians. It is time for a full and transparent investigation into the Air India Flight 182 tragedy, without any interference from the Indian government. The world deserves to know the truth.

The Fentanyl Trail Leads to India, Not the Sikhs: Unmasking Disinformation

Recent indictments against Indian chemical companies and their executives for the distribution of fentanyl precursors reveal a stark contrast with the Indian government's long-standing accusations against Sikh separatists. While the Indian government has consistently attempted to associate Sikh activists with violence and terrorism, the evidence indicates a very different reality regarding the actual sources of illegal drug trafficking.

The Indictment and the Fentanyl Trade

The United States has indicted two Indian companies, Raxuter Chemicals and Athos Chemicals Pvt. Ltd., along with Raxuter's senior executive, Bhavesh Lathiya, for their role in a conspiracy to distribute and import fentanyl precursor chemicals. These companies are accused of sending the necessary ingredients for manufacturing fentanyl to the U.S. and Mexico. They allegedly engaged in deceptive practices like mislabeling packages and falsifying customs forms to avoid detection. For example, Raxuter Chemicals once shipped a package containing the precursor 1-boc-4-piperidone to New York, disguising it as Vitamin C. Similarly, Athos Chemicals agreed to sell 100 kilograms of this chemical to a drug trafficker in Mexico. The U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York stated that these companies were "knowingly distributing the chemical building blocks of fentanyl". The Justice Department has emphasized that they are targeting every link in the fentanyl trafficking supply chain and will hold those accountable who contribute to the opioid epidemic.

Contrasting this with the Indian Government's Claims about Sikhs

This clear evidence of Indian companies’ involvement in fentanyl precursor trafficking sharply contrasts with the Indian government's narrative regarding Sikh separatists. The sources show a history of the Indian government attempting to link Sikh activists to violence and terrorism. The Indian government has been accused of employing disinformation campaigns to discredit the Sikh separatist movement. This includes creating false narratives about Sikh terrorist training camps, as well as attempting to link Sikh activists to the Air India bombing, despite some evidence suggesting the involvement of Indian intelligence agencies. There are claims that the Indian government has infiltrated Sikh organizations and used agents provocateurs to undermine the community. There is also the accusation, without evidence, that Sikh activists are responsible for drug smuggling.

The True Source of the Problem

The indictment of these Indian companies for fentanyl precursor trafficking provides a disturbing perspective on the sources of illegal drug production. These actions directly contradict the Indian government's accusations against Sikh separatists and their supporters. The evidence suggests that the Indian government may be using propaganda and disinformation to undermine the Sikh community's movement for self-determination. The situation warrants a critical examination of both the fentanyl crisis and the Sikh separatist movement. There is a need for evidence-based analysis rather than politically motivated claims. While India has blamed Sikhs for violence and illegal activities, they have shown themselves to be linked to actual drug trafficking.

In conclusion, the facts emerging from the fentanyl precursor case challenge the narratives that have been used to discredit the Sikh community. The evidence points to a very different source of drug trafficking than the Indian government has publicly claimed. This discrepancy between the claims and the evidence demands a more transparent approach to this complex issue.

Why does Hinduism label Sikhs as Hindus?  Before we can answer this question, we have to answer the question of what is religion. 

What is the definition of religion: re·li·gion

/rəˈlijən/

noun

the belief in and worship of a superhuman controlling power, especially a personal God or gods.

a particular system of faith and worship.

plural noun: religions

"the world's great religions"

a pursuit or interest to which someone ascribes supreme importance.

"consumerism is the new religion"

Definitions from Oxford Languages

Next we have to ask, what is Hinduism?

What is Hinduism: Hinduism has no one founder but is instead a fusion of various beliefs. Around 1500 B.C., the Indo-Aryan people migrated to the Indus Valley, and their language and culture blended with that of the indigenous people living in the region.  The culture that emerged is called Hinduism.  Although Hinduism recognizes three principal gods: Brahma - creator, Vishnu - preserver, Shiva - destroyer, there are actually 33 million gods according to Hinduism.    

Today we hear the call from Hindustan that Sikhs are Hindus.  In fact, the “secular” Indian constitution declares Sikhs to be Hindus per Article 25b.  Sikhs have grown tired of declaring that they are not Hindus, but Hindu supremacists continue the disinformation campaign and use the power of legislation to defame the Sikhs.  The Indian state mandates the Sikh community to follow HINDU Marriage Act; Succession Act; Minority and Guardianship Act; Adoption and Maintenance Act.   

Hindu supremacists have gone further and started to appropriate Sikh history into their misconceived Indian history.  Although India did not exist prior to 1945, Hindu supremacists claim that Guru Tegh Bahadur sacrificed himself to preserve the Indian state; instead of the truth that his martyrdom declared the universal belief in freedom of religion.  Today, Hindu supremists claim that Guru Gobind Singh’s younger children died in defense of the Indian state; instead of the truth that they were made prisoners because of the treachery of a Brahmin and they were martered by the Muguals because they refused to convert to Islam.

How do we stop the intentional misrepresentation and misconstruing of the Sikh faith by the Indian state?  The only feasible long term solution is for Sikhs to take the reigns of power into their own hands.  Only with political sovereignty will we have religious sovereignty.  With sovereignty we will have the ability to narrate our own history without the state censor lurking behind our backs and banning the publication of our accurate history.  With sovereignty we will have the resources necessary to accurately and effectively retell our historical events.  

The answer is clear that only with sovereignty will we be free to live as intended by our Gurus.    

Update: 12-12-21

As of December 9, 2021, the farmers have ended their protests and returned to their homes.  The farmers have decided to end their protest on the grounds that ministers agreed to discuss their other demands, including guaranteed prices for produce and a withdrawal of criminal cases against protesting farmers.  

It is unclear why the farmers' protest was ended without reaching a successful conclusion.  Although the farmers' leaders have stated they will hold a review meeting on 15 January and If the government doesn't fulfil its promises, they may resume the protest.  Why the farmers would leave their strong bargaining position and return home at this critical juncture is unclear.  Some people have stated the farmers' leaders and government are colluding to scuttle a potential demand for Khalistan by the farmers.  The protest was brought to an early end to save India from a potential secession by Punjab.

Update: 12-1-21

As of November 29, 2021, India's parliament revoked the three laws that were the main cause of the farmers Protest for approximately one year.  Although the three farm laws have been revoked, the the underlying issues effecting Punjab and its farmers have not been resolved.  The farmers need minimum support price (MSP) for their crops.  The underlying argument for this scheme is to allow for diversification of crops.  As some people may be aware, Punjab is suffering from groundwater depletion.  The rice that is grown in Punjab is not a native crop and water is pumped up from the underground aquifers to flood the rice fields.  The harvested rice is then sold to various parts of India.  The MSP scheme will allow for various native crops to have a minimum price, so the farmers can grow and sell the native crops and move away from growing rice.  This will allow the underground aquifers to replenish and save Punjab from turning into a desert by 2045 as has been predicated by experts.  Whether the center government will allow for MSP has yet to be determined, but it is not likely.  The social and political machinations the the center will engage in to remain in power and deprive farmers of a decent living standard has already gone into effect and the dirty politics of India will again rear its ugly face.  

One possible solution for the center government is to allow for a true federal structure as promised under the India Constitution and allow states to exercise their own governance over agriculture.          

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The current system of sale of farm products allows for the farmer to sell their produce to a government set mandi system at assured floor prices.  Although this is not a perfect system, this does allow some base price for the sale of farm products. 

The new system will eventually remove the mandi system and replace it with private agricultural corporations.  The private corporations will hold all of the bargaining power and force farmers to enter into contracts that call for demanding quality or quantity that is not possible for a small farmer.  Additionally, under chapter III of the Act, the new system sets up an independent Dispute Resolution Mechanism.  The binding arbitration system gives the Sub-Divisional Magistrate power to establish a Board of Conciliation with 2 to 4 board members to resolve any potential dispute.  Chapter IV calls for penalties of $25,000 rupees and may extend up to 5 lakh rupees. 

Eventually as the farmers are not able to meet their contract obligations, they will be forced to sell their farms to the corporation to satisfy their debts.  The farmers will be forced to sell their farms, leading to the dissolution of the small family farms into large corporate owned land and farms.  The land will move from individual owners to large corporations.  The individual farmers will be employed as service laborers to the corporate farms.

The relationship between Sikhs and India is complex, marked by both significant contributions and periods of deep injustice. Historically, Sikhs have played a crucial role in the defense and development of India.  However, the rise of Hindu supremacy and discriminatory policies raises questions about whether Sikhs should continue to defend India.

Historical Contributions:

•Military Service: Sikhs have a long tradition of military service in India. They are well-represented in the Indian armed forces, known for their courage and dedication.

•Agriculture: The agricultural success of Punjab, often called the "grain bowl" of India, has significantly contributed to the nation's food security6. Sikh farmers have been at the forefront of this agricultural revolution.

•Secularism and Resistance: Guru Tegh Bahadur sacrificed himself to defend the universal belief in freedom of religion.

Points of Tension:

•Sikhs as Hindus: The Indian constitution declares Sikhs to be Hindus, which many Sikhs reject.  The Indian state mandates the Sikh community to follow Hindu acts related to marriage, succession, and adoption.

•Appropriation of Sikh History: Hindu supremacists have appropriated Sikh history, misrepresenting the sacrifices of Sikh gurus and their children as being in defense of the Indian state.

•1984 Sikh Genocide: Over 30,000 Sikhs were killed throughout India in the November 1984 Sikh Genocide, with hundreds of Sikh women raped and Gurudwaras burnt.

•Operation Blue Star: In June 1984, the Indian army attacked the Golden Temple, the holiest Sikh shrine, resulting in the deaths of approximately 200 Sikhs. The Akal Takht, the Sikhs' political center, was destroyed using tanks and bombs.

•Discriminatory Laws: The Indian government has been accused of using laws like the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) to criminalize dissent.

•Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA): The CAA is viewed as a discriminatory policy that could lead to Sikhs being deemed non-citizens in India.

The Rise of Hindu Supremacy:

•Hindu Fascist State: With the rise of the RSS and BJP, India is increasingly seen as a Hindu Fascist State, promoting the supremacy of Hindu philosophy and culture.

•Marginalization of Minorities: The BJP/RSS consider Muslims, Christians, and any non-BJP aligned political ideology as a threat, engaging in violence against these groups with impunity.

•Hindutva: America should partner with its democratic partners to sanction India to abolish Hindutva.

Arguments Against Defending India:

•Erosion of Sikh Identity: The systematic elimination of Sikhs and the dissolving of their identity into the Indian majority is a major concern.

•Injustice and Impunity: The lack of justice for the 1984 Sikh genocide and the continued impunity granted to perpetrators of violence against Sikhs raises questions about the fairness of the Indian system.

•Call for Secession: Given the divisive policies and the potential for violent crackdowns, some argue that secession from the Indian Union is justified.

•Khalistan: Some Sikhs believe that the only long-term solution is to take the reigns of power into their own hands and with political sovereignty, religious sovereignty will follow. A 2021 referendum showed that Sikhs desire an independent, democratic country.

The historical contributions of Sikhs to India are undeniable. However, the current political climate, marked by Hindu supremacy and systemic injustices, compels a reassessment of whether Sikhs should continue to defend India. The pursuit of political and religious sovereignty may be necessary to protect the Sikh identity and ensure justice for past and present grievances