Rajnath Singh Urges Strong Action Against Sikhs For Justice During US Visit
On Monday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met with Tulsi Gabbard, the US Director of National Intelligence, to discuss various concerns, primarily focusing on the organization Sikhs For Justice (SFJ). Singh called on the US government to take firm measures against SFJ, which is banned in India for promoting separatist activities linked to the Khalistan movement.
During their meeting, Singh highlighted that SFJ operates from the United States and has connections with Pakistan and other groups involved in terrorism and anti-India activities. He urged the US to label SFJ as a foreign terrorist organization under its laws, emphasizing the group’s threats towards Indian political figures and its encouragement of violence to create a separate Khalistani state.
SFJ was first banned in India in 2019, and the Ministry of Home Affairs extended its classification as an "unlawful association" in July for another five years.
Gabbard addressed issues concerning religious minority persecution in Bangladesh, expressing the US’s commitment to combatting "Islamist terrorism" globally. She mentioned that Prime Minister Modi is also concerned about these challenges, and they would collaborate to counter such threats.
In her comments, Gabbard condemned the long-standing violence and discrimination against religious minorities, including Hindus and Buddhists, stating this has been a significant concern for the US administration.
Moreover, she spoke about extremist ideologies seeking to establish an "Islamic Caliphate," which threatens various religious groups through violent means.
During the discussions, Gabbard reaffirmed the strengthening of the India-US defense partnership and the importance of sharing intelligence. Both leaders underscored the necessity of strategic security in their ongoing collaboration, noting advancements in military exercises and defense cooperation, particularly in maritime security.
This meeting reflects the growing ties between the two nations, with a focus on ensuring global security and addressing mutual concerns effectively.
