Governor Newsom Vetoes Key Legislation to Protect Californians from Transnational Repression
In a recent decision, Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed significant legislation designed to defend Californians from transnational repression—actions taken by foreign governments against communities living abroad. Many people in California, especially those in the South Asian community, have faced harassment and threats, particularly from the Indian government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Transnational repression, as defined by the FBI, includes a range of harmful activities carried out by foreign governments against their critics living outside their borders. This can involve stalking, harassment, legal battles, and even violence. A report by the human rights organization Freedom House highlights that a quarter of global governments utilize such intimidating tactics to silence their critics living abroad.
Among the countries identified, India has emerged as a notable case, especially for a democratic nation. Lawmakers in the U.S. have acknowledged India’s actions, with a bipartisan resolution last year citing it as one of the main offenders of human rights abuses against its expatriates.
The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, under Modi, has been known for using violence and intimidation to stifle dissent both within India and beyond. Noteworthy incidents include the killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada this year and an attempted assassination of Sikh activist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in New York.
Members of the Indian diaspora in the U.S., particularly Sikhs, Muslims, and Dalits, have faced challenges, including travel restrictions and visa denials as political retaliation. Critics of the Indian government have also been targeted through online disinformation campaigns, threats, and the suppression of their social media presence and websites.
U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal, a critic of Modi’s policies, has even expressed fears about being able to visit her parents in India due to her outspoken views.
California is particularly affected by these issues, given that it has the largest Indian population in the United States. In Fremont last year, Sikh Americans reported being shot at during a highway incident, highlighting the real dangers they face.
Disinformation campaigns aiming to discredit civil rights organizations fighting against caste discrimination have also emerged, with reports suggesting that Indian consulates have tried to limit the travel of critics and share intelligence about U.S.-based individuals with Indian authorities.
Senate Bill 509 was intended to give law enforcement the tools needed to tackle these global threats against Californians. Newsom’s veto means that prosecutors will struggle to hold those responsible for such actions accountable. By not supporting the bill’s training mandate for law enforcement, it leaves them unprepared to deal with these complex situations.
This veto represents a missed chance for California to stand firm against foreign oppression. The battle against transnational repression is just kicking off, and Newsom’s decision sends a concerning message about the state’s dedication to protecting its residents from emerging threats.
