SIKH STRUGGLES 2023 | Sikh Youth UK 7th Annual Magazine

To practice forgiveness is the true fast, good conduct and contentment

Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, Ang 223

Articles:

Deepa Singh

Amrita Kaur Dhanda

Sim Kaur

Sikh 2 Inspire

Khalsa Toy Store

National Sikh Youth Federation

Khalistan Centre

Free Jaggi Now

Cover Illustration:

Roshni Kaur

Creative Direction & Design:

Karan Singh

Welcome

TO THE SEVENTH ANNUAL SIKH YOUTH UK MAGAZINE

We hope you enjoy reading this year’s magazine. With each issue, we aim to push forward with new, engaging content to make the panth aware of the issues facing our community.

This magazine provides individuals and organisations a platform to present their message.

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Jassi, I found out my daughter has been sending indecent images of herself. What do I do?

Educate her on the dangers and risks that come with sending images such as these, although she believes she has control over who sees them, in reality who is on the other end of the phone cannot be trusted. Indecent images of young people get shared out every day, if you still have the ability to teach your daughter, explain to her that these could one day come back to haunt her.

ASK JASSI

Jassi, my son has become very antisocial and does not speak to any of his siblings much anymore, he goes out comes back and goes straight to his room. What do I do?

These are common warning signs of bullying. This is common within the Sikh community, many young boys are targets of bullying due to the fact they are Sikh. Many Gurdwaras offer boxing classes and support for those experiencing this form of bullying, try surrounding him with other Sikh boys and like-minded individuals so he feels he has help around him and he is not alone in this which will help build his confidence.

Jassi, my sister keeps going missing. What do I do?

Is your sister isolating herself? Does she hang around with new people or one person in particular? It is likely that she could be in a relationship with a person trying to isolate her from her loved ones. Speak to her and ask these questions, find out as much as you can, it could be something very serious. Let her know you are there for her and concerned for her, and just want to know what is going on. If it turns out she is in a new relationship, and it is a partner that is making her do this, explain to her this behaviour is not normal and you are her family and care for her very much and therefore she should leave him as he is trying to separate her from the people she cares about most.

Jassi, we recently moved from Italy a few months ago, and people from school keep picking on me. What do I do?

Speak to someone about these people, whether it be your family or the teacher at school, please let somebody know that this has been happening. It is not okay for you to be treated badly because you were not born here, your way of life may be different to these people at school, however that does not mean they should be hurting your feelings – they are perhaps jealous you have been on such an adventure! Nevertheless, tell somebody how you feel and never let this define you, you have as many rights as a person born here.

Jassi, how can I spot the difference between a legit boyfriend and a predator?

There are many warning signs of a predator that are not normal when being in a relationship, some characteristics of a predator include : creating dependency, using manipulative language regularly, pushing physical and sexual boundaries and expressing controlling or jealous behaviour. All things stated here are NOT acceptable in a relationship, and if any of these are displayed, something is seriously wrong. Try to speak to someone about it and cut off all contact with the person, blocking them and deleting their number before you get deeper into a situation such as this.

Jassi, my daughter goes out to parties regularly and her behaviour is beginning to change. What do I do?

Change in behaviour is important to pay attention to, there can be many reasons for why this is happening. In this situation however, it is crucial to find out if your daughter has been taking anything, ultimately substance abuse. If she goes out a lot, the influence and pressure of others could be leading her in this direction and it is better to deal with the issue before it is too late and she develops a heavy dependency. Keep talking to her and let her know you are there for her to get her out of this vicious cycle. These could again be signs of the ‘party model’ whereby young people are loitered into parties and events, but are later exploited into a world of drugs and alcohol, which can be very damaging to them both emotionally and physically, grooming gangs are very common, so pay attention to whose parties she often goes out to. Sikh Youth have seen the impacts of the party model frequently, they often affect those between 14 – 24, youngsters often get drawn in due to the enjoyment and thrill of parties, causing the cycle to continue.

Sikh Representation

KHALSA TOY STORE

Where did the toy Baaj Singh come from?

We were sat together discussing wrestling and super hero figurines that were all the range back when we were kids and in the background Mr. Gill put on an animated movie for his son. This led the discussion to how overdue Sikh representation is in the toys and collectables industry and as we

threw a few ideas back and forth, we thought “Why not?” with Guru Sahib’s grace, anything is possible and it’s our belief in Maharaj that gave us the confidence to bring Khalsa Toy Store to life.

After brainstorming a few concepts, we decided we wanted to lead with a symbolic figure that with a traditional puratan name, that again helps us revisit

the era where these powerful and meaningful names were common in Sikh households. With “Baaj” we liked the concept of him being the Jathedar of our 1st collection, “Watching over” his Jatha and allowed us to create character icon logos that give you a depiction of the names; e.g. You’ll see a Hawk for Baaj Singh, a Lion for Sher Singh and Curved swords for Tegh Kaur.

A lot of thought and long nights went into the planning and mapping of our products as we literally started from scratch without any experience in this field, but we learnt alot along the way with Guru Ji’s kirpa over the 14 month journey to release our first product.

Why is it important to have representation like this?

We felt that not only would Sikh inclusive toys be super popular, but also open up another avenue to do parchar on the Sikh identity and image, that could highlight who we are and why we look a certain way whilst inspiring our youth to take pride in that image and encourage self value.

For example, we get alot of feedback from parents and children who have used their Khalsa Toy Store Toys as visual aids in presentations and workshops at school or in their workplace to help them engage other children and staff on our physical symbols of faith and attire.

Where’s the vision and future for Baaj Singh and the other action figures?

So the 6 action figurines out now are the very first Sikh toy collection, from here we expand on the characters; Baaj Singh, Tegh Kaur and Sher Singh in terms of their

story and are looking to release further accessories and concepts that tie in with this collection as well as developing other ranges and a variety of different toys and games including early years and an educational range.

How much time and effort goes into this kind of project?

To be honest at the moment it’s 24/7, especially since our National TV Feature on BBC 1 Sunday Morning Live back on 5th February 2023, due to the amazing response and enquiries we’ve had. At the moment we are managing this all ourselves as well as full-time work, but with Maharaj’s kirpa as we expand we can look to employ some staff and look to delegate certain duties.

What kind of positive feedback examples have you got?

One of our favourite moments so far was receiving a tweet from a parent in California, who attached photos of her son before gifting him the Baaj Singh action figure and then on Vaisakhi day, now fully dressed in the Gursikh Baana, showing great pride and confidence adorning the traditional Sikh image. And on a mass scale, on birthdays, Gurpurabs and Vaisakhi we get sent so many unboxing and reaction videos of all these children overjoyed with excitement to get their hands on

Toys that they can relate to and connect with is truly inspiring and continues to motivate and drive us to deliver our best every time we map a new product, because we see first-hand the positive impact our toys and collectables have on the kids and families.

What final message would you like to say to the sangat?

First and foremost it’s a wholehearted thank you. We are fully aware that none of this would even be possible without Maharaj Ji’s kirpa and the sangats support. We are truly humbled by the response and we need as many of our people as possible to continue to support, promote and share Khalsa Toy Store with all their friends and family so that we can continue to grow our product range and bring you all the related content and material in terms of animations, stories, games and a full variety of toys, representing Sikhs on a global scale.

For anyone who wishes to contact us with enquiries, collaborations or bulk orders, you can email us at info@khalsatoystore.com and everybody please follow us on all major social media platforms @ khalsatoystore.

Sikh Sports INSPIRATIONS

I love the backing of the whole Sikh community in my football career so far and hopefully can provide the foundations for many Sikh young lads coming through now and hopefully an inspiration to see that scoring and playing in Wembley is a possibility so any young Sikh lads in the game of football keep striving for the goal and I am sure you would make it, I am willing to help.

It makes me feel proud that I am able to stand on a platform and represent Sikh women, hopefully encouraging more to join in. It is very rewarding to see young girls message us about how they wish to kickstart their fitness journey and seek advice.

The competitions at GAD gym have helped me become more confident within myself. More importantly, it brings the youth together in supporting one another, regardless of gender – a key element taught in Sikhi. Seeing the Sikh men of our community cheer on and celebrate the females is a great feeling and helps break gender stereotypes in society.

Our goal is to reach new heights for women. We wish to carry on lifting heavy and begin competing regularly. The platform we have created is key for the young Sikh girls to witness and feel inspired by, we are here to support in any way.

Gurleen Kaur Grewal & Prabhleen Kaur Grewal

Honestly, it is a blessing to be a Sikh male competitor. The Khalsa Panth and many others sacrificed their lives for our people and religion, to represent them many generations later on it is amazing to inspire others in this kind of way.

Those that are lacking confidence aren’t aware of our Sikh history. Whenever Dharam (righteousness) was threatened, the Khalsa happily gave their lives. A lot of our Sikh Warriors were the most fierce and beloved ones. They fought for their justice and were happily to sacrifice their lives.

We can create the same mentality. It won’t happen overnight. Just be consistent and build yourself up brick by brick. Sometimes you will fall, but only you’re able to build yourself after every setback. Then you’ll be able to create the biggest comeback after a setback. We learn, we grow and we get stronger.

Jagraj Singh (GAD Gym)

Malvind Singh Benning

TRUE UNION

Bhai Satwant Singh Ji is sat in prison in the cold of winter wearing only a single layer of clothes. Having been shot thirteen times in his legs when his Brother, Bhai Beant Singh Ji, attained Shaheedi he can barely stand up let alone walk.

It has been over a month since he last saw his family and having recently sent a letter for them to come visit, his parents and sister have now arrived in Delhi. When his family arrive at the prison they are shocked upon seeing the state of Bhai Sahib - it is clear how he has been mistreated by the guards. His father, Bhai Tarlok Singh, asks him how he is.

Bhai Sahib responds:

Chardi Kalla

Assuming that Bhai Sahib is putting on a brave face his father probes further - asking how he can be in high spirits when his physically state is so bad. His sister cannot bare to see him like this and at this point breaks down and starts to cry.

On the surface it may look like he is suffering but on the inside he is in pure bliss. Having being blessed with the gift of Amrit, Bhai Sahib has stayed true to his Rehat and has laid down everything at the Charan of their Guru. He tells his sister not to cry and to keep faith. When she looks up and into the eyes of Bhai Sahib she receives Darshan of Kalgidhar Patshaah, Sahib Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

She would never cry again.

Visits continue to take place and over a year passes. As they are talking Bhai Tarlok Singh asks his Son - who was engaged to be married - if he should arrange for his fiancé to also come and visit. Bhai Sahib were preparing for their True Marriage and so they were not interested in meeting their worldly bride to be.

Bhai Tarlok Singh persists in asking and Bhai Sahib responds to their father: “Do as you wish.” When back in Punjab, Bhai Tarlok Singh goes to see Bhai Virsa Singh in the village of Jatta seeking agreement

for, Bibi Surinder Kaur Ji, to go and visit Bhai Sahib in prison. Bhai Virsa Singh’s response is swift - he says ‘I have arranged for their marriage in your household, therefore she is now your daughter please feel free to take her to Delhi if you so wish.’

From the sakhi of Bhai Sahib and other figures in our history we are able to recognise the importance of Sikhi and understand our true purpose.

We often take to worldly attachments; fearing loss and holding on to relations and materialistic things, when really we should be focusing on our true purpose and that is to truly form a union with Mahraj.

SIKH ACTIVISM

AND THE UK GOVERNMENT’S PREVENT SCHEME

Sikh activist organisations, and the wider Sikh public in the UK should be deeply concerned about the UK government’s ‘Prevent’ policy. Prevent is a legal duty placed upon public sector workers in 2015 under Section 29 of the Counterterrorism and Security Act. The legal duty of ‘Prevent’ requires public sector workers from teachers to doctors have ‘due regard to the need to prevent people from being drawn into terrorism.’

‘Prevent’ has its origins as a policy

introduced in 2003 by the then Labour Government. ‘Prevent’ operates on a logic that an action can be ‘prevented’ before an individual intends it, so it acts as ‘pre-crime’ reporting and detection function. Although the UK government claims that ‘Prevent’ is a crucial part of their toolkit for “preventing” terrorism there is no evidence that it works and the science underpinning the “vulnerability factors” has been widely criticised.

In addition, the concepts around “radicalisation”, definitions around “extremism” and how these ideas link to the objective of ‘Prevent’ itself have never been fully explained nor are they understood by those expected to carry out the duty.

The Prevent scheme is often justified as a “risk-based” approach that identifies individuals or groups deemed to be at risk of being drawn into terrorism or extremism. However, this approach is overly broad and has led to the stigmatisation and marginalisation of individuals targeted.

The way in which Sikh activists have been targeted and harassed, with some being labelled as “extremists” due to their activism around Khalistan is a clear indication that Prevent is being used as a political tool.

This concern, that the application of ‘Prevent’ upon Sikhs was largely a political tool, was validated in the 2023 review of prevent. For the first time Prevent directly mentioned Sikh activism for Khalistan. The above excerpt from the prevent review shows the blatantly false nature of the UK government’s approach to Khalistan, which aligns with antiSikh discourse found domestically within India. There is a clear and documented history of the UK government colluding with India.

From the UKs’ involvement in the invasion of Sri Darbar Sahib, its collaboration with India to silence dissent in the UK in order to secure trade deals, to the direct

involvement of the UK intelligence agencies in the arrest of Jagtar Singh Johal.

Furthermore, the UK has for decades arrested and targeted, and arrested Sikhs inside the UK, most recently using Schedule 7 stops to harass Sikhs at border stops. The 2018 police raids on the houses of Sikh activist were advertised in Indian newspapers as being caused by “intelligence” supplied by the Indian government and acted as a ‘fishing exercise’ to gather evidence to prosecute Sikhs in the UK.

The West Midlands police publicly stated that these raids were related to allegations of “extremism”. The ‘Prevent’ policy has seen police going into Gurdware and schools and directly naming SYUK as an “extremist organisation” in order to use situations to cause divides in the community and use these divides to push government narratives. These policing actions have been justified through government funded academic reports to investigate “Sikh extremism” in the UK.

Even though one of these reports, ‘The Idea, Context, Framing, And Realities Of ‘Sikh Radicalisation’

In Britain’ is cited by Sikhs as evidence of a lack of a “threat” from Sikhs towards Britain it still upholds and relies on deeply racist and problematic concepts “extremism” and frameworks of ‘national security threats’ that underpin policies like ‘Prevent’.

The impact of the ‘Prevent’

policy can also be seen on the wider Sikh community. It has created mistrust and suspicion between Sikh activists and Sikh organisations that engage in governmental representation work. Closed door meetings between certain Sikh organisations with the UK government, and visits to the Indian high commission by Gurdwara committees remain a sore subject and create mistrust, given the nature of the relationship between the UK and India and how Sikhs are used to uphold the status-quo.

India has long pushed for the normalisation of relations between Sikhs and India by funding university chairs, holding events in Gurdwara, and claiming to work in Sikh interests. However in the light of the underlying relationship between these governments and the policy framework of ‘Prevent’ it is clear that there are ulterior motives to target Sikh activism.

It is worth noting that the recent mention of Sikhs and Khalistan regarding ‘Prevent’ is the first time things have gone public in this way and points to more targeting of Sikhs to come.

‘Prevent’ has infringed upon civil liberties, including freedom of speech and expression, as well as the right to privacy. The impact of Prevent on Sikh organising efforts in the UK has been significant, with many Sikh activists, and the wider Sikh public being afraid to speak out on Khalistan for fear of being labelled as “extremists” or facing government surveillance.

This has had a chilling effect on the Sikh community’s ability to advocate for their rights and speak out against injustice. There is no mechanism to address the harms caused by ‘Prevent’, in fact new laws such the ‘Spy Cops Bill’, the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act, and an increased weaponization of “national security” we will see more targeting of wider sections of the Sikh community. This will have a significant impact on suppressing Sikh protests, stripping Sikhs of citizenship and breaking Sikh families by taking Sikh children into care to ‘Prevent’ them from becoming “extremists” for supporting and organising around Khalistan.

The UK government’s approach to preventing terrorism and extremism is more about controlling dissent, protecting trade relations, and maintaining government power than protecting citizens.

We need more space for meaningful dialogue within Sikh communities, civil society, and other stakeholders to develop a more effective and community-led approach to Sikh liberation and Sikh sovereignty.

We need more transparency from those Sikh organisations that engage with the government, especially where it concerns Khalistan.

MATA GURVINDER KAUR

Interview with Sister of SATKAARJOG SHAHEED BHAI SURINDER SINGH SODHI

#1

Could you tell us about Bhai Sahib’s childhood, how he was growing up with his family?

As he was as a child, so was his character in adulthood. Never once did we see him upset or angry with anyone. He was very playful and adventurous as a child. Despite our grandmother’s warnings to be careful, Sodhi would daringly climb trees at a young age.

#2

When did Bhai Sahib meet Sant Jarnail Singh Ji?

Having told me he had no interest in worldly education, Sodhi left home in 1976 (at the age of 14) and went to Harian Belan. There he learnt horse-riding, Gatka & Shastar Vidya. He then met Sant Ji in 1977, took his Santhya at Mehta and accompanied Sant Ji on their parchaar tour thereafter.

#3

Could you tell us about Bhai Sahib’s respect for women?

Never mind women, from the smallest child to the eldest residents of the pind, Sodhi treated them all with the upmost love and respect. Sodhi would often say that every younger woman should be treated as a sister and every elder woman as a mother/ grand-mother. Sodhi helped so many daughters of the Panth when they fell on difficult times, some instances of this only became known to the family after his Shaheedi.

What do you think was a turning point in Bhai Sahib’s life?

There is no doubt about it, the turning point in Sodhi’s life was when he met Sant Ji. From that day, he did not look back. He told me that his life was now dedicated to the Kaum, that he had no personal or family-related wishes/desires.

Sodhi wanted to do something for the Kaum. He would say if he could make a 1% difference, then he would know “mera jeevan safal hogya” (his life had been worthy/ fruitful). In this spirit, he decided to live and die for the Kaum and followed every hukam of Sant Ji.

How did Bhai Sahib’s Shaheedi impact the Panth?

The Panth always mourns the loss of its diamonds but their sacrifices and jeevania also inspires countless others to rise up. The young generation connected with Sikhi today are flowers that have blossomed from the sacrifices our Shaheeds.

Sant Ji, who referred to Sodhi as their right arm, felt as one of their limbs had been severed following Sodhi’s shaheedi. However, Sodhi was destined for this outcome. He had dedicated his life for the Kaum, had he not attained Shaheedi when he did, he would have remained by Sant Ji’s side attaining Shaheedi in June 1984. The only source of regret is that so called ‘apne lok’ conspired in his Shaheedi.

How did Bhai Sahib’s Shaheedi impact the rest of the family?

Whilst he had warned of this day – that he could become a martyr at any time – it still shocked me to my core. My saura family (in-laws) were very close to Sodhi and his Shaheedi really impacted them too. Overcoming this loss was very difficult but my Husband and Sant Ji supported me through this period.

What final message would you like to give to future generations in the UK?

Rather than convey any message from myself personally, I will repeat Sodhi’s message to the Kaum. He would say that we can only honour the sacrifices our Shaheeds if we listen to their bachan and move forward on that basis. The sacrifices of our Shaheeds acts as catalyst and gives rise to countless generations of warriors that serve righteousness and uproot injustices. He encouraged treating older females as mothers, younger females as sisters and showing respect to our elders.

Above all, the Kaum should keep faith in none other than Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Mahraaj. Sikhs should strengthen faith and meditation of Naam Simran, engage in Seva and indiscriminately strive for justice and prosperity of all. Through these ideals, we will keep our children and future generations connected to Sikhi and the glorious history of our beloved Shaheeds.

Vaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Vaheguru Ji Ki Fateh

THE YEARS

2020

Kisaan protest Sicily to Southall lm iknishana Boxing

2022

West Midlands 3 Victory National Sikh Sports council Khalistan National Football

2019

Operation tecumma Part 2

Badla music album

Gym competitions

Mainstream BBC coverage on grooming

Never Forget 84 museum

2021

West Midlands 3 Arrest & Attempted extradition London Sikh Students Freshers Fair

Never forget 84 Premier League Student led AGTF Unsaid Digital News Media

2023

Sexual grooming exhibition and display UK Gurdwara tour raising awareness

Awards Ceremonies Documentaries

Street Patrols Street Patrols

Chaupai Sahib Jaaps Rallies

Campaigning

Supporting families

Sikhi Classes

Rememberance Vigils

Roadshow Scotland to Southampton lm

Midlands Police in Sikh spaces Tecumma

FRESHERS EVENTS

Whilst being at university, many students will attend their society led freshers fair. Essentially what this is, is the facilities within your university coming together. They present what they offer e.g. societies, where you might find religious societies, sports or even hobby based interests.

Furthermore, many universities use this as an opportunity to make students aware of what they have to offer. Ranging from career advice, preparing you for the real

world and possibly mental health facilities.

We set up the Sikh Students freshers fair to show a support mechanism to the community, especially the students so they can have a great social life whilst still having the help of their community around them during their studies. These events benefit everyone involved. We understand and see the importance behind a big organisation like a university doing this and we were automatically

inspired to push out our own version.

The idea was to bring students, businesses, organisations and essential discussion topics in one place and to show Sikh students what we can offer them.

SIKH STUDENT

Each participant has an essential role:

Students - they are our future.

Showing them what tools we can provide them helps keep them close to the community and we can benefit them by kick starting their career, safeguarding them and providing them with a fun event to go to!

Organisations - a platform to express their message.

For example, AGTF use these events to educate students, teach them what warning signs there are, doing performative pieces to engage students and provide awareness.

Businesses - an opportunity to promote and increase their profile.

We have stalls ranging from restaurants to real estate agents.

These are tailored to students.

Events like these bring the community together, regardless of age, gender or profession and allow us to help each other. Having Sikh businesses promote their business amongst the youth helps them build connections in to post graduation roles. An example of this is the teachers that run stalls and give career advice to students. Some stalls are educational stalls where literature is presented. For example, naujawaani. Moving to a different city can be a daunting thought. You grow up somewhere and you tend to know the ins and outs of where you were brought up. You know where to avoid, you are aware of the safe spaces and generally tend to have people you can go to and understand how your local community is set up . When you are somewhere new, you might put yourself in a position that is unsafe because you are not educated on the area. The last couple years, the Sikh student freshers fair, both in the Midlands and London have been extremely successful. With thousands of students attending each year, the engagement we have seen has increased.

Here is some of the feedback:

I moved from Coventry to London and felt very uneasy as I did not know London properly and was not aware of the community here. After attending, I networked with people in my industry, was made aware how to keep myself safe and how to keep others safe, and my favourite, I picked up some vouchers for the veggie places around London. Events like this are important to attend.

First year student at LSE

I always knew about grooming and how to be safe but the performative piece really put things into perspective for me. It opened my eyes. I feel more proactive now and want to help everyone in my community feel safe.

Second year student at Aston University

JAGTAR SINGH JOHAL

Jagtar Singh Johal, a British born national has been arbitrarily detained for the 6th consecutive year, neglected and failed by the UK Government.

Early on in Scottish activists, Jagtar Singh Johal’s abduction and detainment, his legal team had stressed that the Indian authorities had not presented any evidence, and overall, not followed any semblance of the due process of law. Specifically, his lawyer, Jaspal Singh Manjhpur, had questioned the credibility of Jagtar’s incarceration, stating that ‘if the authorities were not able to produce specific charges and evidence weeks after his abduction, what they could possibly present months or now 500 days later.

Since then, another 1400 days have elapsed and Jagtar continues to be incarcerated in Tihar Jail’ (Maximum Security Jail, New Delhi). Jagtar was formally charged on three cases after 1806 days, thereafter on the other five cases. The Trial was due to commence on four of the cases on 28 November 2022, but the Prosecution failed to produce any witnesses. They also failed to produce prosecution witnesses on 13 January 2023. The Trial continues on 10 March for four cases and 17 March for four cases.

Since his abduction on 4 November 2017, Jagtar has endured

more than 198 pre-trial hearings and 87 trial hearings. He has been confined in jail the entire time, with the Indian judiciary purposely delaying, postponing and prolonging his imprisonment, callously keeping him in an endless cycle of confinement. In January 2021, Jagtar was unlawfully remanded in a new “murder” case which took place whilst Jagtar has been incarcerated in a Maximum Security Jail.

The most agonizing aspect of this ordeal has been the lack of action from the UK Government and for the Government failing to follow its own policy on arbitrary detention. In August 2022, Jagtar’s family, on Jagtar’s behalf have raised a claim against the Government as, they may have contributed towards Jagtar’s detention and torture. The case is ongoing in the UK Courts.

Jagtar’s Member of Parliament, Martin Docherty-Hughes, has been a strong voice of support for this case. Since the abduction occurred, MP Docherty-Hughes has repeatedly called on the U.K. government to intervene and call for Jagtar’s release. Reprieve a nonprofit organization of international lawyers and investigators whose stated goal is to “fight for the victims of extreme human rights abuses with legal action and public education joined the Free Jaggi Now campaign along with Redress

calling for the release of arbitrarily detained British national.

This year, Jagtar spent his 6th consecutive birthday, his 35th birthday was spent in prison, whilst the UK Government have neglected Jagtar, put trade over human rights, the Sikh diaspora have not forgotten Jagtar. Collective prayers were arranged around the world, including Australia, USA, Canada, India and in the UK on Jagtar’s birthday praying for his Chardikalla and release & return to the UK. Once again, as always Sikh Youth UK coordinated the prayers, we are grateful for the continued support. A day of action was arranged for Jagtar, in Gurdwara’s across the UK and co-ordinated protests took place around the world outside the UK Consulates, calling for Jagtar’s release.

Whilst the UK and Indian Government have tried to suppress Jagtar’s voice, it was of concern when Facebook and Twitter suspended, then unpublished the official FreeJaggiNow campaign pages and more recently Instagram suspended the official page. All three are now operational, thanks to everyone raising further awareness.

It is clear Jaggi’s voice is getting louder and longer India unjustly detain him, the louder the voice will be.

KESH SEHMBAL

In 1996 a young Sikh boy had committed suicide due to being constantly bullied at school by racist students, Vijay Singh, 13, left a poem for the world to get an insight into what he was truly experiencing.

Monday, my money was taken, Tuesday, boys called me names, Wednesday, my uniform was torn, Thursday, my body pours with blood,

Friday, it’s ended, Saturday, Freedom.

This poem was found in Vijay Singh’s private diary, where he documented and wrote about all of the racial abuse he faced. He experienced racist taunts, his money being stolen, his uniform torn, and a physical attack. The diary entry ends with ‘Saturday, Freedom,’ Vijay took his own life on Sunday in 1996.

The Sikh identity means more than anything to our community, and has been a target for many bullies all over the UK for years. A plethora of cases and videos have gone viral of Sikh boys being attacked at the hands of racist bullies and some showing great courage and fighting back the bullies.

A fantastic project called the Kesh Sehmbal seminar is an important step in helping our communities youth tackle the issue.

Sikh History Series sevadars and Singh Army sevadars over the last few years have visited various cities across the U.K. delivering a special seminar ‘Kesh Smabal’ - looking after and preserving the honour of your Kesh.

Kesh Sambal - the importance, respect and care the Khalsa give to their uncut hair.

A 3 hour seminar explaining the rich history of our kesh and its importance in today’s society.

Children and adults will learn some key self-defence techniques if they or their Dastaar/patka are targeted or attacked.

We also explain and teach the maryada of looking after your kesh and different ways to tie your crown.

Shaheedi - we look at the sacrifices made by great Sikhs, who chose death over disrespecting their Kesh.

Self-defence - we share some key techniques, if you find yourself

or your Kesh being targeted or attacked.

Dastaar tying - we share different ways of tying your crown and the spiritual significance.

Educating children and adults about our rich faith and unique identity, looking at the physical and spiritual reasons of Kesh.

The Kesh Sambal event includes looking at;

- Why we keep our Kesh;

- How to explain Kesh to nonSikhs;

- Looking after your Kesh;

- Washing Kesh and what to do with old Kesh (which come out during to combing);

- Tips for those new to keeping Kesh;

- Tying a Gutti or Joora;

- Self-defence techniques;

- Protecting Kesh;

- Confidence and self-esteem building;

- Dastaar tying;

- Doing kids gutti, guth, patka;

- How to teach them to do their own Kesh;

- Anti - bullying mentality and how to become bully proof.

We have toured multiple cities in the U.K. and will eventually tour all across Europe and North America to help educate the youth to ensure we take an active role against bullying for future generations.

REFLECTIONS ON SYUK & PANTHIC ACTIVISM

In 2022 SYUK marked their 10 year milestone. This important moment was congratulated by Sikh organisations and individuals from across the diaspora. In adding our voice to those congratulating SYUK we would also like to offer some analysis and reflection regarding their contribution in various fields and the numerous ongoing challenges they face.

The main foundation of SYUKs activism has been connecting youth across the UK with Sikhi and Panthic souch (thinking), educating on issues that impact our youth, and making space for Panthic activism. SYUK have been organising to meet these objectives through various different methods.

One of these methods, which has been a key area for SYUK to organise, is sports. Through organising and supporting weightlifting competitions SYUK has created a competitive space that honours our shaheeds and in doing so have created a format that’s been emulated in the diaspora to much success.

The annual Shaheedi football tournament has been running for 8 years now and brings together teams from all over the UK, and this year culminated in the formation of the national Khalistan Football Team playing, and winning, their first match against the national Tamil Eelam team.

In terms of Sikhi parchaar SYUK hold regular Sikhi camps for

kids around Vaiskahi and school holidays. These Sikhi camps provide Sikh children with a space that teaches them about Sikh struggles for Khalistan, Sikh history, and introduces them to fitness, current Panthic issues, involves them in seva, and makes the Gurdwara an important location for them to socialise with their peers.

In the area of education SYUK have been running training days for young Sikhs to introduce them to organising and equip them with knowledge and skills. Their annual freshers fair is another vital space to introduce university students to Sikh organisations, connect them with their peer group, and Sikh businesses so youth have a supportive structure around them to face any challenges and keep them grounded in community.

These educational efforts are further reenforced by media outreach through music, multiple films, articles, and magazines like this one. Through these various platforms and methods SYUK consistently raises serious issues like abuse, substance addition, and the targeting of young Kaurs in universities. Most importantly SYUK educate around Satkar of Guru Granth Sahib Ji and our collective duty towards honouring our shaheeds and building on the foundations their sacrifices laid in keeping our spirit of patshahi (Sikh sovereignty) alive in our hearts and realising their vision in the struggle for Khalistan.

In addition to sport, education,

media, and striving to further Panthic souch SYUK have been firm in their support for grassroots campaigns and Panthic morche. Not only have SYUK been at the forefront of panthic morche they have incorporated the spirit of these morche into the wider work that they do, so that morche don’t just become “events” they remain part of the Sikh space itself. These grassroots campaigns and morche have included major organising efforts against grooming, beadbi of Anand Karaj, and the #FreeJaggiNow and #WestMidlands3 campaigns.

These efforts, like their wider work are layered and interconnected, where the morche bleeds into the everyday life of Sikhs who take a stand. With Singhs being arrested, imprisoned, and as we’ve seen with #FreeJaggiNow police raids on #5SinghsUK, extradition attempts, schedule 7 integrations (where the police use powers to detain individuals at airports), and resulting morche against police presence in Gurdwara.

This demonstrates how when our Panthic souch turns into activism it is met with police actions in the UK instigated by the Indian government. This link is a serious point that has serious consequences, and Singhs in Panthic spaces will often say things like ‘everyone’s panthic until your door comes flying off’. Police actions, whether it’s arrests, court cases, raids, border stops are the overt and sharp end of the UKs efforts to curtail, deter, and punish Sikh activism, but there is a softer ,

more covert approach.

Panthic activism centres parchaar about the Sikhi of our Shaheeds and Khalistan, it honours our shaheeds as uncompromising in the face of state violence. Panthic activism, or to use the correct term Sikh Sangharsh (Sikh struggle) has been targeted by the Indian state through criminalisation and genocide, and by British state through direct collusion that the widens India’s criminalising of Sikh resistance beyond its borders.

The efforts of India’s allies such as Britain, America, Canada, and increasingly Australia are designed to continue Indian domestic policy. India’s targeting of Sikhs is rooted in genocide that desires to annihilate Sikh Sangharsh and today imprisonment and death that seeks to serve as a constant reminder of consequences of Sikh resistance. So when India’s allies engage in overt or covert methods such as travel restrictions, freezing bank accounts, online censorship, denial of citizenship, or extradition they are upholding Indian state violence and reminding Sikhs of the consequences that India and its allies impose.

This is something SYUK sevadar have directly experienced through police raids, ongoing politically motivated police cases designed to restrict their activity and tarnish their public image via the mainstream media, and online censorship. Despite these obstacles SYUK continue in their efforts of Sikhi parchaar and Panthic morche.

Online censorship has increasingly been used as a tool to deter and punish Sikh activism in order to deny space to voices that pose a threat to UK-India relations and the dominant discourse of Sikhs as a “law adding model minority that lives to serve others”. Further these efforts of disruption and punishment are justified by ‘extremism reports’ that seek to define what a “good Sikh is” vs a “bad Sikh”, and this narrative of the “moderate” and “extremist” has been upheld for a long time by both governments and Sikh themselves. This dynamic plays out constant in front of our eyes in our Gurdware and through often well meaning Sikh organisations, committees, and individuals.

What’s clear is that Sikh space and Sikh imaginations will remain a contested ground. For the Panth dadri (those that feel the pain of the panth) the Shaheeds call out to us to embody their rebellion just as vividly as worldly governments demand that we conform and domesticated Sikhs remind us of the benefits of living a comfortable conformist life.

The impact of this is a cumulative effect, not only on other Sikhs and organisations emulating the methods of Panthic organising but also internalising the limits of challenging worldly governments. This push/pull effect is at the core of the expanding/restricting space of panthic activism. It’s on each of us to decide where our energy goes.

PARTY MODEL THE

What is The Party Model?

The Party Model is the tactic used by Predators and grooming gangs and others of a similar level, who loiter and attract young people in through the use of parties and exciting events. These to a young person may seem harmless and just like any regular party with their friends, however these are very dark. Drugs and alcohol are usually supplied to the kids at these events and in these parties peers who are younger male or female members of gangs will begin to encourage or potentially pressure young people into using them in a social way to begin with.

This can be extremely dangerous and can lead to individuals feeling trapped blackmailed exploited in situations such as these, in a world of drugs and partying, ultimately corruption.

Where does this take place?

- House parties

- Private parties (hotel events, private venues etc.)

- VIP bars

- Shisha lounges

- Events involving high profile figures

Here, youngsters are typically offered Class B and Class C drugs, even in some cases Class A, known as ‘social drugs,’ substances that get used in a social setting around other people, perhaps to fit in or feel accepted by others around.

How to spot The Party Model?

The individual tends to go out a lot to parties or perhaps comes home late at night or even the next day with little explanation as to where they were.

There could be a change in attitude or mood, and diet for example they seem more irritable or even aggressive, they become very defensive when questioned and alcohol and drugs can have an impact on ones emotions.

They may speak about new people they have become friends with, and often less about their old friends. These new ‘friends’ will typically be older than the young person.

Spending a lot of time alone or in their room when they are not out.

Not showing much interest in wanting to spend time with family, as they tend to spend all their time at these parties being exploited.

The party model can often lead to trafficking blackmail exploitation and county lines.

The party model has a knock on effect on young individuals across the country and is not spoken about as much as it should be, raise awareness of this issue and keep our youth safe.

TRAFFICKED

What the hell am I doing in Dubai?

This is what I thought while I opened my eyes and lay on my bed in Dubai, how did I end up here?

It all started at work he used to be nice and say lovely flattering comments, which at first made me smile.

I was blind to how he slowly coerced me, manipulated me, turned me against my family, isolated me. I had nobody. He then began to force me to do whatever he asked.

He blinded and silenced me, pushing me into the sexual entertainment industry where I was lured into making big money for what I thought would support our future. It started out fairly normal, with music videos and rap songs, meeting guys on dates. However it turned dark very quickly.

I had a stable job, I was fine at home but he took it all from me. Now here I am, helpless and unable to turn back.

I lost my friends, family and most importantly, my faith. He pressured me into doing a Nikkha, in a flat where he called

an Imam, he arrived and we said our vows, being told we belong together.

A life and future with him was what I thought this would lead to. Instead, it ended with me being

destinations such as Morroco and Turkey. I was unable to return as they threatened to take my passport off me, with the constant reminder that this was for our future.

Now I’m here In Dubai, living a life I hate, full of regret.

Eventually, I reached out to my family, and told them I am okay in attempts to put their minds at rest. They put me in touch with someone in attempts to support to me, which they did but nonetheless I still feel conditioned to this life that I am unable to change, with the shame of ever facing my loved ones again.

trafficked from city to city, working at Shisha bars and lap dancing clubs to provide for our future while he sold drugs and lived an illegitimate life on the streets.

It began to get worse. People from abroad would ask to take me away for weekends in luxurious

My story had a positive ending and a meaningful message, I am thankful I reached out to my family who got me the help I needed, putting me in a position where I can now speak about what I went through to you all. I hope to prevent this ever happening to another young women, this experience ruined me, but also made me the strongest I have ever been. I urge anyone in a similar position to reach out for support, you are not alone in this.

I N D I A N R E P R E S S I O N A G A I N S T S I K H S

PUNJAB UNDER SIEGE

S i n c e S a t u r d a y

1 8 t h M a r c h 2 0 2 3 t h e r e h a s

b e e n w i d e - s p r e a d g o v e r n m e n t r e p r e s s i o n a g a i n s t S i k h s i n P u n j a b . T h e I n d i a n s t a t e h a s

i n s t i t u t e d a " m e g a c r a c k d o w n " t o s t i f l e S i k h s o c i a l , r e l i g i o u s , a n d p o l i t i c a l o r g a n i s i n g .

1 1 5 c o n f i r m e d a r r e s t s , 3 0 0 a r r e s t s c l a i m e d

I n t e r n e t s u s p e n d e d f o r 2 7 m i l l i o n p e o p l e

' S e c t i o n 1 4 4 ' b a n n i n g p u b l i c g a t h e r i n g s

C e n s o r s h i p o f j o u r n a l i s t s

1 9 , 0 0 0 p o l i c e a n d p a r a - m i l i t a r y d e p l o y e d

P o l i c e r o a d b l o c k s , s e a r c h e s , a n d c o r d o n s

M e d i a d i s i n f o r m a t i o n & a n t i - S i k h p r o p g a n d a

# P u n j a b U n d e r S i e g e

# W e S t a n d W i t h A m r i t p a l S i n g h

B h a i A m r i t p a l S i n g h i s a t t h e c e n t r e o f t h e r e c e n t w a v e o f s o c i a l , r e l i g i o u s , a n d p o l i t i c a l o r g a n i s i n g . T h i s c o m e s a m i d s t a b a c k d r o p o f r i s i n g S i k h m o b i l i s a t i o n s a n d s t a t e r e p r e s s i o n o v e r t h e p a s t d e c a d e .

A m r i t p a l S i n g h c a p t u r e d a n d e x p r e s s e d S i k h d i s s a t i s f a c t i o n w i t h I n d i a . H e g a r n e r e d w i d e s p r e a d s u p p o r t w i t h S i k h s a c r o s s t h e w o r l d f o r h i s u n a p o l o g e t i c a r t i c u l a t i o n o f S i k h s u f f e r i n g i n I n d i a . H e c h a l l e n g e d t h e e s t a b l i s h e d p o w e r s t r u c t u r e s i n a n u l t r a - n a t i o n a l i s t H i n d u m a j o r i t a r i a n I n d i a .

A m r i t p a l S i n g h ' s K e y M e s s a g e s :

D r u g d e - a d d i c i t o n

T a k e A m r i t

T a k e p r i d e i n S i k h i

U n d e r s t a n d p o l i t i c a l c o n d i t i o n s

S i k h s a r e s o v e r e i g n

P u n j a b i s o u r l a n d

S u p p o r t K h a l i s t a n

L e a r n m o r e :

THANK YOU

Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru ji Ki Fateh.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the sevadars who have supported the production of this year’s magazine.

We hope you enjoyed reading through the various articles and topics discussed. Each year, we look to expand the involvement of the magazine, providing members of the community with a platform from which they can display their work- if you would like to be part of the team for the next magazine, please contact us:

+44 (0) 7983 693537 sikhyouth_uk@outlook.com

@sikhactivists

Supported by:

To practice forgiveness is the true fast, good conduct and contentment

Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, Ang 223

A MAGAZINE BY