SIKH STRUGGLES 2022 | Sikh Youth UK 6th Annual Magazine

Sikh

006 SIKH YOUTH UK 2022

Humility is the word, forgiveness is the virtue, and sweet speech is the magic mantra.

Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, Ang 1384

Articles:

Deepa Singh Sanj Singh Sim Kaur Amneet Kaur Sikh 2 Inspire Respect Your Guru 1984 Tribute Harwinder Singh Naujwani Dr Prabhjot Singh USA Kataar Singh Khalsa

Cover Illustration: Roshni Kaur

Creative Direction & Design: Karan SINGH

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

08

RESPECT GURU

11

KHALSA RAJ

14

SIKH STRUGGLES

20

JAGTAR SINGH

23

NEVER FORGET

28

UNSAID DIGITAL

34

KHALISTAN POEM 35

TO OUR SISTERS

10

OUR PROJECTS

12

GROOMING CASES

16

SANDEEP SINGH

22

PUZZLE THEORY

24

HARMEET SINGH

30

WEST MIDLANDS

35

SUPPORTED BY

37

Welcome

TO THE SIXTH ANNUAL SIKH YOUTH UK MAGAZINE

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

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

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VIEWS

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can we hope to give Janam to our Kaumi Shaheeds?

We recognise that it is easy to get enticed by the glamour of the social media world. A world where every picture looks perfect and every influencer seems to be living the ideal life. We understand the pressure that our young sisters are facing in this climate is intense and, perhaps, much more than we had to go through in our teenage years. However, there is nothing more powerful than Maharaj and there will never be anything more empowering than being able to Kamma - to earn their Sikhi.

We are empowered.

We have the ability to raise generations of Gursikhs who have Prem for Maharaj and for their Kaum. We have the power to plant the seed of Sikhi into our future generations. But, only if we are strong in ourselves first. May Maharaj give us all the strength to understand the importance, as Bibiya, to have Sikhi embedded within ourselves.

A message from the SYUK Bibiya Sevadars Every day we see posts from Instagram “influencers”. These are the individuals online that the majority of teenage girls admire and follow. Female empowerment to them, is defined as a protest against societal limits placed on women around the world.

Yes, this is important. Fighting for your rights should never be discouraged, but what about when female empowerment is then used by these same influencers as an excuse to project the ideal body?

Or perhaps when it becomes about embracing qualities that do not

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coincide with Gurmat?

Instead of following these influencers and polluting our minds with their advertising of vices, let us remember what is important to us as Bibiya of the Panth. How? Reflecting on our Jeevans in contrast to those of Puraatan Bibiya can be eye opening. We should hope and ask Maharaj to give us even an ounce of their Jigara and Himmat. Blessed are those Matavaa who have given birth to our Soorme Shaheed Singhs. With our current Jeevans,

So today, we give our sisters a short, but powerful list of Bibiya who define empowerment for us.

We hope that you will now take your inspiration from these souls who have given everything they have to our Kaum:

Bibi Shushil Kaur Ji Bibi Upkaar Kaur Ji Bibi Manjeet Kaur Ji (Tainee) Bibi Narinder Kaur Ji Bibi Davinder Kaur Ji (Bholi)

A new grassroots campaign has been launched- RESPECT YOUR GURU (RYG)

Supported by the main Gurdwaras and Sikh Organisations in the UK, the RYG campaign has been set up to tackle a resurfacing trend of some Anand Karajs

(Sikh Marriage Ceremony) being carried out in hotels, banqueting suites, outdoor marquee venues and destination venues, as well as the financial exploitation of Sikh ceremonies by the wider wedding industry and rogue Granthis (Sikh Priests).

The campaign also aims to bring a greater awareness in relation to the Satkaar (Respect) for Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Maharaj.

In 1998, Sri Akal Takht Sahib, the highest Sikh spiritual and political body, issued a Hukumnama (Order) to the global Sikh community stating that Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji should never be taken to any hotel, pub, club, banqueting suite, restaurant or any other such establishment/venue which serves, consumes, or sells alcohol, meat or tobacco.

The decision to issue this Hukumnana was not taken lightly, and it was in response to mass concerns about the immoral practices and attack on Sikh Maryada (religious protocols) being normalised under the guise of success, extravagance, and opulence. It was not a minor issue at the time and struck at the

heart of what it meant to be Sikh – believing in and practicing the principles enshrined in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. The 1998 Hukumnama was taken extremely seriously by the Sikh diaspora and resulting organic campaigns over the next decade eradicated the behaviour in its entirety. Anand Karaj’s were held exclusively in Gurdwara Sahibs as per Sikh Maryada.

However, in 2021 we have seen the re-emergence of the exploitation of the Anand Karaj and targeted Beadbi (sacrilegious attack) of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, with an increase in marquee and destination beach venues being used.

In a large-scale national Sikh meeting held on 13th November 2021 at Guru Nanak Parkash Gurdwara Coventry, it was collectively decided by UK Sikh Representation that greater awareness is needed on this matter and that all Anand Karajs will take place only at a Gurdwara Sahib as they should be doing so in the first place.

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Projects we have been supporting As you are all aware, we recently launched the first ever Sikh Football Leagues, consisting of the Never Forget 84 Premier and Division One leagues. Additionally, we have begun the Bagga Shera Knockout Cup, with those involved being able to look forward to the Jagtar Singh Johal Community Shield at the latter stages of the season.

Irrespective of being illegally incarcerated in an Indian Jail, we at Sikh Youth UK, along with the Free Jaggi Now campaign, are attempting to continue Jaggi’s legacy of Never Forget 84. We will continue to try to achieve this by engaging in more parchaar and projects, raising awareness of the atrocities committed in and since 1984 against the Sikh Panth.

To continue the already-high momentum, we are now proud to introduce the official newsletter for the leagues. With this update, we would also like to share the vision which sparked the creation of the Never Forget 84 initiative – Jagtar Singh Johal. A British-born Sikh, who as a Human Rights activist, dedicated his life to serving the Sikh Panth.

The Sikh Football Leagues, successfully bring Sikhs from across the country together, giving them the opportunity to unite, experience positive sangat and network with like-minded individuals. It also allows Sikhs to support one another in their respective projects and campaigns, whilst building a strong community spirit- something which we feel is

essential outside the league.

As a collective, we as Sikhs have been neglected, targeted and demonised by the UK. With this in mind, the leagues act as a solution to the lack of Sikh representation in major sports. We will continue to develop our youth, whilst giving them the tools they need to pursue sports at the highest level. This vision will be extended further, with the junior and female sections beginning soon.

We thank you and your teams for joining us in this journey and especially thankful to Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Maharaaj for blessing us with Seva to serve the Panth. May you all stay in Chardikala and enjoy the progression of the first ever Sikh Football League.

Some of the projects we’ve been involved with, over the past 12 months: Sikh Students Freshers Fair London

Annual Akhand Paath

University tours

Sikh Students Freshers Fair Derby

Annual Shaheedi Tournament

Regular Gurdwara seminars

Campaigning for Jaggi

Sikh Sports Council

Rally for Deep Sidhu

Campaigning for West Midlands 3

Launched legal conference

Sikhi Camps

Candle Light Vigil for 30 Years

Jaggi Documentary

Unsaid Digital

Monthly Chaupai Sahib Jaaps

International Jaap for Jaggi

AGTF

Never Forget 84 Sikh Football League

Khanpur Massacre

Southall Street Parchar Street Patrol

Working on our next film project

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New Film coming soon

A MUST ATTEND EVENT FOR ALL! SUNDAY 13th FEBRUARY 11:30AM-12:30PM

SRI GURU SINGH SABHA GURDWARA SLOUGH SHEEHY WAY, BERKSHIRE, SLOUGH, SL2 5SS.

& STREET PARCHAR LOCAL SOUTHALL SIKH SEVADARS UNITING FOR A STREET PATROL AND TO TAKE PART IN STREET PARCHAR The five issues highlighted below are prevalent amongst modern youths and can often lead them to making poor life choices. As a community, it is important that we understand the signs- so we can help prevent them.

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Noora Mahi has just returned from Sirhind and is revealing how the younger Sahibjade of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj have attained Shaheedi. Following this, Maharaj Sahib Ji Uchaar a Bachan: “The whole dynasty of the Mughals will be uprooted. In Sirhind, a big sin has taken place – the city will be destroyed by Our Sikhs and there will be much pain.” When questioned about this Bachan, Maharaj Sahib Ji state further: “We have seen these Mughals commit many sins and now their rule will come to an end. They will not even be left with a Nagara to play.” Not long after, Maharaj Sahib Ji left this area for Dina.

Will you be their voice?

Why don’t you become Muslims?

We shall give you many riches.

If you agree to read the Kalma, you will have many soldiers under your command and own many elephants. The emperor will keep you close to him and take responsibility for you. You will own many villages and your status will multiply. You will become Nawaabs and live a life full of pleasures. Hearing these words, the warrior spirit within Baba Jorawar Singh Sahib Ji arose and they turn to their brother, Baba Fateh Singh Sahib Ji, and say:

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“Our time is nearing to follow the path of our grandfather. In order to protect our Sikhi, we must give our heads. What do you think – tell us what is on your mind?

Also in Bir Ras, Baba Fateh Singh Sahib Ji gave an emphatic response Just like how our Grandfather, Sahib Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, stood up for righteousness - which is known throughout the three Loks - it is now upon us to do the same. By giving our heads, let us pull the roots of this Mughal rule!”

It does not take long for news of this Bachan to reach Sirhind.

Seetal is a Suniyasi Sant and an Abhiaasi of Satnaam Waheguru.

They possess great spiritual power and live within the city. When they hear the Bachan of Maharaj, they worry about what is to comethey too worry it will be impacted by the destruction. Being well aware that the Bachan cannot be reversed, they begin thinking of how they can do Bhalla of the city.

With these thoughts in mind, they decide to go and receive Darshan of Satguru Sahib Ji. Arriving in Dina they meet with Bhai Shameer Ji who then go and tell Maharaj Sahib Ji that a Sant wishes to see Them. Maharaj Sahib Ji says go and bring them. When Sant Seetal arrive they perform Namaskar to Maharaj Sahib Ji with their hands clasped together and their head bowed. They make a supplication by first praising Maharaj Sahib Ji. “Sache Paatshah, in this Maat Lok You have taken on Your physical form and all wish to have Your darshan. Maharaj

Sahib Ji, You are the form of the Lord but we cannot even begin to understand You – You are without limits. Your glory is endless and Your victory will forever remain.

You have taken on 10 Saroops and have ferried across countless people that no one will ever be able to count. You have created a Panth of Soorme – the Saints have also become Soldiers. Those who have committed huge sins have had their very foundations torn apart.

Your Panth will always be adorned with Kesh, Shastar and Kecheray.

Never in this world has there ever been a Panth like the Khalsa. You have removed the Dukh of Your Sewaks. Maharaj Sahib Ji, You have so much power to destroy

the tyrants. You are forever forgiving and ever-giving. You are the Protector of Your Saints. You always remain in the hearts of Your Sewaks. Your Saroop is beyond praise. You are the King of all kings, all the Devtay are under Your Command. You are the form of Bliss – please listen to my request.”

Satguru Sahib Ji laugh when they hear this and ask: “With what purpose have you reached this jungle land so quickly, leaving your house behind? What desire do you have in your mind and what have you contemplated before arriving here?”

The Sant replies that a big sin has occurred in Sirhind and Maharaj

Sahib Ji You have Uchaar’d a Bachan about the city where I live.

Many of my Sewaks also live there and have become very fearful when they heard the Bachan.

These Sewaks gathered together and came to see me and as a result, I have reached Your Charan. Please do Kirpa and Uchaar a Bachan with which we will be spared. In response to the humble request of the Sant, Sahib Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji do Kirpa and say: “You have come to Us and We will accept your request. Go back to your Dera in Sirhind and stand on the roof terrace and speak with a loud voice.

Wherever your voice reaches that place will be protected – the rest of the city will be destroyed when Our Khalsa take Badla!”

Following the example set by their older brothers, and like the Shaheed’s of June 1984 with unwavering faith, Bibi Satnaam Kaur and Bibi Waheguru Kaur also made a stand for righteousness and rocked the foundation of a tyrannical rule. They would rather have their bodies blown to pieces than see any damage inflicted within the four doors of Sachkhand Sri Harmandar Sahib. Their actions spoke volumes, setting a precedent for a wave of Gursikhi Parchar.

Fast forward to the present day, the England and Wales Census 2011 revealed that a significant portion of the Sikh community in Britain are relatively young and British born – 25% were between the ages of 15 and 29 at the time of the Census. How are we – individually and collectively - using our voices to educate this generation on our recent history? How are we using our resources to help prevent the new forms of attacks that are occurring today?

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situation to him. Deepa and the whole team gave me hope and stood by my side like my own brothers – something I am forever grateful for. They came with me to confront him about the issue, and he admitted to blackmailing over the phone several times, as well as over text. He admitted to taking my money and the days it was given.

He has targeted other Sikh girls before in the same waymanipulated them emotionally, taken money from them and when they were no longer beneficialthreatened to leak their indecent pictures and videos because they did not want to play the role of being his ‘bitch’. This was evident from his devices when confronted and whilst we were there, everything was removed from them. He had also taken my gold jewellery and whenever I would ask for it back, he would ignore that conversation and change the topic, not wanting to return it. With the help of Deepa and the SYUK team, I also managed to get that back.

Some cases we have witnessed over the last year.

I met this guy at university and after a few get-togethers, I was subject to emotional blackmail, I was exploited, and manipulated into giving a substantial amount of money to him. He said he needed to borrow it to pay off his loans with deadlines approaching, so I trusted him. Later, when I asked for my money to be repaid, he started blackmailing me and threatened to send indecent images and videos to those closest to me. He said he would come to my house to break things and tell my family. He began to extort me even more and ended

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up taking nearly £20,000 off me and I didn’t know what to do. I felt trapped. I felt hopeless. Hopeless to the point where I thought the only solution to get out of this mess was to end my life. He used all of this against me and said I could only get my possessions back after he graduates.

I did not have anyone to talk to; anyone to ask for help. I was too scared and anxious that he would tell everyone and ruin my life. Eventually, I spoke to Deepa from SYUK and explained my

He admitted he had my money, and we came up with a financial agreement where he is paying me back monthly, and we all left amicably with this agreement.

The situation was quite sensitive so approaching my own family was difficult. However, Deepa backed me and gave me the confidence to speak to my brother about the problem. I spoke to my brother and then Deepa also explained in a way where my brother understood and stood by me. Initially, they were annoyed but soon after, they came to terms and reassured me that they are always there for me.

A few days later the police had come and arrested me and Deepa for confronting the perpetrator.

No one else was arrested as he and the police did not know who the Sevadars were who came with Deepa. This ordeal made me feel horrible. He tried to get out of it by having the police arrest us, even lying to say Deepa pulled a knife out on him which was absolutely false. After everything he had done to me, he stooped to a new low by

trying to get Deepa arrested who was literally helping me to resolve this situation. But the charges were later dropped on all of us and police began to investigate him for his allegations on me and other females at university. In all honesty, this was such a horrible experience to have gone through and it was a difficult situation to be in. I am therefore so incredibly grateful for the support I received from SYUK and my family - it made dealing

with the feelings easier.

Such people who target girls are disgusting. They should be spoken against and dealt with. If I had not of approached SYUK or my family for help, I would still be stuck in this toxic situation, or worse, I could have taken my own life.

However, I am thankful this ordeal is over; that he is paying me back monthly and that everything was deleted off his devices – allowing my life to slowly get better.

CASES In the last year, the below are just a handful of examples and a small glimpse of what we have been dealing with, in relation to grooming cases. These examples highlight the very real effects on families over the past 12 months and as such, we thank them all for allowing us to share brief but factual case studies to the Sangata.

STUDENT FRESHERS

LUTON CONVICTIONS

Two female Sikh students from the Midlands approached us regarding a perpetrator who had been targeting one of them for five years and the other for 3 years. He was emotionally blackmailing them, exploiting them and made them suffer in silence. They finally spoke about their situation to each other as it was affecting their studies and realised it was the same guy.

After reaching out to our team of Sevadars, the two victims joined us in confronting the perpetrator, who was astonished to find us with the pair. We assisted in getting their indecent videos and images deleted off all of his devices and iClouds. Thing were left amicably, with the girls being in a much better place than they were initially.

A local gang in the area were tormenting, abusing and violently attacking a young Sikh girl and her family consistently for over 2 years, before they had the courage to contact our team. The girl and her family had suffered immensely, accumulating a list of 77 crime reference numbers which had been reported to the police against the perpetrator and his gang members. Some of these crime reference numbers related to incidents such as petrol bombs being thrown on the property of the victim and her family, vicious attacks on the victim and constant threats of harm towards family members.

After years of misery, the family bravely reached out to us and we began to assist as best we could. Within a year of supporting legally, on the ground and within the family, whilst also simultaneously putting pressure on the gang, the victim was able to feel a small sense of justice. Two of the gang members, namely, Shabaz Miah and Shazad Miah, have BOTH been convicted in the past year for crimes against the victim and her family. Some of the charges included: threats to kill, stalking, causing serious alarm and distress, abuse, unlawful violence and more. This brave girl and her family have endured times which most could not, and should not dream of. We urge everyone reading to keep Pehra on these issues, especially in their areas.

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THERE WAS A 70% INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF SEXUAL COMMUNICATION WITH A CHILD OFFENCES RECORDED

32% OF CASES INVOLVE INSTAGRAM

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72% OF CASES INVOLVE ‘THE BIG FOUR’ SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS

https://www.nspcc.org.uk/about-us/news-opinion/2021/online-grooming-record-high/

TRAFFICKED FROM BIRMINGHAM TO LONDON

MISSING TEENAGE GIRLS

A family reached out to our Sevadars as their daughter had been coerced to leave home with a perpetrator. Within 24 hours, we obtained a tip-off and approached the location. As our Sevadars confronted the wrongdoer at his home, he cowardly refused to come outside. Armed response was called by the culprit and one of our Sevadars was detained at the scene. As the situation escalated, the family’s daughter - who had been covered - was taken home by the authorities that same evening. A worrying example of how Sikh girls are trafficked across the country, whilst perpetrators attempt to manipulate the system in place, targeting and exploiting our girls.

As an organisation, we had received a substantial number of calls from families in the past year with regards to missing children, and some adults. The missing cases really emphasised how the system is failing our community, whilst also ensuring our Sevadars worked tirelessly to find a solution.

FORCED CONVERSION Broken Sikh families are being: exploited, forced to convert, leave their faith, culture and families. Compounding this, we have also had a substantial rise in cases where sham marriages and undercover Nikkahs have been taking place. The girls subject to this absurdity, however, have subsequently been located and brought back to their families. As you can appreciate, pressure sometimes has to be put on the ground and this would not be possible without the support of our strong national network.

Unfortunately, authorities neglect our issues and we see countless, broken Sikh homes as a result of these issues. In most cases, it is extremely difficult to navigate as perpetrators having worked diligently, building a lot of trust with the victim. Some incidents have included young girls being trafficked by luring them to holidays to places like Morocco, Turkey and Dubai.

Historically, they would have been trafficked to countries such as Pakistan, but now we are seeing a constant and growing trend of these glamourised destinations being utilised.

We would also like to state that no matter what stage of Sikhi you are at, Amritdhari or non-Amritdhari, it is imperative that you and your family understand these issues - they will most definitely affect you. Thus, we urge at least one person in each household to step up, take responsibility and learn about this subject matter. You can start by being more effective in your households and a Benti to all major Panthic groups to also prioritise these issues. It is vital to do so, as the issue not only affects the current generation but also will affect our future mothers of the Panth – signifying that there needs to be more done.

We would like to take a moment to thank each and every single one of our Sevadars who help assist and dedicate their time to this Seva.

A national alert on a 12 year old girl was one of the most high profile public cases we dealt with.

For four nights and five days, our Sevadars were out on the ground, day and night, with the whole community galvanising behind us for support. Local search parties were arranged in many locations and our strong underground network across the country assisted greatly.

After the fifth night and with the true blessings of Maharaj, due to our campaigning, a young lady had spotted a leaflet and recognised the young girl. She then proceeded to contact us and the police immediately. The child was located and brought home to safety.

This is just a small indication of the reality of what goes on and what has been happening for countless years to us. The system does not understand our religious or cultural issues and continues to fail many Sikh families across the country. There needs to be lots more done internally for us to see significant progress on these issues as a Panth.

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Sikh UK host Indian Prime Minister, Narinder Modi, who gave a dossier to the UK highlighting the names and organisations of Sikh activists who, he suggested were funding extremist activities in India.

During his visit, he also held an exclusive meeting with Sikh leadership in the UK, paving the way for infiltration and internal Sikh politics to commence.

Kidnapping, torture and false incarceration of British born Sikh, Jagtar Singh Johal. Whilst under interrogation, images of prominent Sikh activists involved in political and human rights work were shown to him. Jagtar Singh Johal continues to languish in an Indian jail to-date.

2015

2017

2014

2016

Documents leaked by the UK revealing high-level collusion and assistance provided for the attack against the Sikh Panth in June 1984 with their Indian counterparts. Following a complete lack of accountability and white-washed by the UK Government, a multifaceted agenda ensued.

Mohan Bhagwat, chief of the right wing Hindu group, was welcomed to their UK subsidiary, HSS, where he conducted speeches and facilitated anti-Sikh rhetoric.

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Attempts to extradite Sikh activists, continuous ‘Schedule 7’ stops at borders for Sikhs, government ‘Prevent’ schemes that are being put in place, as well as disruptions on Sikh activists who are on the front line continue on a daily basis.

Surveillance, harassment, ceasing of funds, censorship, continuous police harassment on family and friends of prominent Sikh activists, official Ofcom and Government reports to target Sikh activism are just the tip of the iceberg in what we have mentioned in this piece.

High-level collusion is at play and as Sikhs we need to educate ourselves about these political issues, especially because they affect innocent Sikh families.

Continuation of raids on Sikh Youth UK homes, with strict bail conditions for the activists who are still fighting pending cases up to the present day.

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2018

2020

Illegal raids on 5 Sikh activists’ homes in the UK, propagating more disharmony between the Sikh community and the authorities.

Attempt to remand and extradite 3 British born Sikh human rights activists known as the West Midlands 3. The case was dropped in court proceedings in September of 2021. This was seen as the greatest victory against both governments in Westminster, with the Khalsa Panth reigning victorious against these false allegations.

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SANDEEP

SINGH SIDHU Deep, in Panjabi, quite literally means light. In a literal context, light illuminates the area it is in, and in this case, metaphorically too. Deep Singh Sidhu was a lawyer as well as an actor, who researched and began speaking about the condition of minorities in India. February 2022, just two years into his work as an activist, he was murdered by the Indian state. Deeps death was presented to the world as a “car accident” by the Indian Government, making him the most recent victim in a long line of political killings perpetuated by the Indian Government. Instead of getting into details of his murder, many are turning towards the specifics behind why the Indian state feared his message. Deep, almost single-handedly, was able to communicate the message that those the Indian Government had painted as “terrorists” in the past. The message was the same as that of Sant Jarnail Singh Khalsa Bhindranwale, who stood firm in their fight for equal rights. Under the guise of unity and integrity, the Government of India sanctioned mass-murder against those that spoke about him, his message, or the true nature of reality for the people of India. Sikhs specifically, became a target as their ancestry and lineage necessitated rebellion in the face of oppression.

The genocide against Sikhs is something that continues today, with many Sikhs languishing in Indian jails despite having completed the sentences they received unjustly.

Aside from the ongoing Sikh genocide, Deep spoke fervently about the exploitation of Panjab.

Panjab by definition, means the land of five rivers; rivers that otherwise would flow naturally through Panjab. However, India has successfully built dams to reroute the water out of the state of Panjab to the rest of India. For the first time in decades, Deep spoke about this specific issue on a large scale, the issue of gallons upon gallons of Panjab’s waters being stolen by the State.

THE T

STO

THE MOV

The exploitation of Panjab, the continuing Sikh Genocide, and the right of the people of Panjab to speak about their safety via their own homeland, Khalistan,

were things he defended staunchly. He was an exceptional orator, and through his experience as a lawyer, was able to effectively communicate to common folk, the dire circumstances they are in. To stifle the message he expressed, he was murdered. By killing him however, the Government of India unintentionally immortalized his message, ensuring that Deep’s light would inspire Sikhs for generations to come.

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SILE

SILE

THE T

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TRUTH

OP

VEMENT

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TRUTH

JAGTAR

SINGH JOHAL Jagtar Singh Johal, a British born national, has been arbitrarily detained for the 5th consecutive year - neglected and failed by the UK Government. Early on in the Scottish activist’s abduction and detainment, his legal team stressed that the Indian authorities had not presented any evidence, and overall, not followed any semblance of 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 could they possibly present months or now500 days later. Since then, another 1000 days have elapsed and Jagtar continues to be incarcerated in Tihar Jail (Maximum Security Jail, New Delhi) without any formal charges against the serious allegations placed upon him.

Since his abduction on 4 November, 2017, Jagtar has endured more than 173 pre-trial hearings and 71 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 had been incarcerated in a maximum security jail. The most agonizing aspect of this ordeal has been the lacklustre response of the UK

Government. Promising a swift and substantial reaction to Jagtar’s claim of torture and continued detention, the UK Government has yet to hold the Government of India accountable. The Foreign Secretary, Liz Truss has yet to meet with Jagtar’s family as well.

This year, Jagtar Singh Johal spent his 5th consecutive birthday in prison, whilst the UK Government continue to neglect him - putting trade deals over human rights.

However, the Sikh diaspora has not and will not forget Jagtar.

Collective prayers were arranged around the world, including Australia, USA, Canada, India and in the UK on Jagtar’s birthday -

praying for his Chardikala, release and safe return to the UK. Sikh Youth UK once again coordinated the prayers and we are forever grateful for the continued support. Reprieve also held campaigns which resulted in Jagtar receiving over 9000 birthday messages and letters of solidarity from around the world.

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

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THEORY

THE PUZZLE The most well known grooming case in the UK is The Rotherham child sexual exploitation scandal.

Statistics published do not highlight how Sikh girls are specifically targeted and groomed instead, reports highlight- Pakistani men target and groom British girls.

However, I want to introduce you to victim A, who did not make the statistics.

Victim A was a young girl who was loved by many. Family, teachers and peers would describe her as bubbly and selfless. She would help out at home, taking care of her siblings whilst her parents were working,

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cooking, cleaning, everything.

She surrounded herself with what she thought were good people.

Her friends would go out after school and she would never join them because victim A would rush home to take care of her family.

That is until one day, where she decided to accept a friends invite to socialize. They went to a shisha lounge. She was excited to be in the company of her friends, void of any responsibility. The group of young, impressionable girls

were then approached by some older men who brought food and drinks for them, wooing the naïve personalities with luxurious items.

One man in particular, who called himself Nav, caught her eye as he was giving her a lot of attention.

Her friends encouraged her to talk to him and before she left, Nav was able to obtain Victim A’s social media. They spoke every day.

Nav managed to get her to open up about her personal life, giving details about where she lives, where

her parents work, private family issues and information – including her bank details. She found a sense of escape in this man.

As time went on, Victim A’s friends would urge her to meet him again.

The second time they met, Nav showered her with a selection of materialistic items, including a brand-new phone and designer clothes. Victim A was thrilled as she thought for once in her life someone was taking care of her. They started meeting up a lot more. He would pick her up

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from school and she slowly began neglecting her family and friends.

Although, her family noticed the change. She stopped engaging in activities at home and regularly had presents from different friends. She was too far in the grooming process at this point. But they did not know what to do, they were oblivious to the help available.

Her family had no control over her anymore. She was gone and all they could do was watch. They did not know why she was acting distant, nothing made sense. As long as she was going to school and getting

an education, her parents let her continue. Her friends saw her less, but encouraged her to stay with Nav because he was treating her so well.

However, this honeymoon period between Victim A and Nav did not last long. She noticed little lies coming to light over time, but always brushed passed it because she was happy. Time revealed that his name was actually Naveed not Nav and he was not a business man like he introduced himself as. He had lied to get her. He portrayed

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himself as her ideal man, when in reality he was not. One day they got into an argument over something miniscule and he hit her. She tried to break up with him but he threatened to: show her family indecent images of her, hurt her siblings and take her money.

She felt lost and helpless. Victim A felt as though her hands were tied and she could not leave. So she stayed. But that one day changed her whole life. Forever. Naveed showed his true colours.

That same day, Victim A told her friends what had happened and rather than being met with support, she was told to just deal with it because he buys her such nice things and takes really good care of her. She was trapped. She could not tell her family because Naveed was a Muslim and she had done things her family would not approve of. Victim A was surrounded by family and friends who quite simply did not understand; she had no choice but to stay.

A few weeks had passed and she thought things between her and Nav were finally back to normal, he was buying her all these extravagant things and was amazing to her. She began to fall head over heels for him again but deep down she always knew something about him was different. He was acting more cold but still loving enough to have a hold on her.

Her birthday was approaching and in order to celebrate it, Naveed booked a getaway. They arrived

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at the hotel and started drinking and consuming drugs. He kept forcing Victim A into doing more, to a point where she eventually blacked out. The only way she remembers this ordeal is through the videos that Nav took of her.

Naveed’s birthday surprise for her was to pass her around his brothers, cousins and friends. They all took pictures and videos. The next morning, she woke up with no recollection of this.

Naveed and Victim A went on with their life like normal, until she overheard a conversation by accident. She was numb. Her trust was broken and she could not understand what happened.

She had this power to stand up for herself. She got her stuff and ran home. She blocked him and tried to move on with life and forget what happened.

However, Naveed had other things planned for her. That same night, he turned up outside her house.

Screaming. Shouting. She tried to get him to stop but he threatened her and said: “If you leave me, I will show your family the videos of you being raped, I will hurt your family and I will ruin your reputation.” So she had no choice, once again, but to go back. This time was different.

It was no longer a relationship. It was a business transaction. She was sold to random strangers, forced to do drugs and drink alcohol and she would miss weeks of school at a time. She became weak, had lost a lot of weight, developed anxiety and depression, but would still mask her true feelings with a smile on her face everywhere she went.

Victim A kept this front on for years to come.

Until one day where she said enough was enough. It was too much. She tried to talk to her friends explaining what he was doing to her but they did not believe her. Her friends thought she was lying. She told her parents and they blamed her, they told her not to say anything because they did not want the rest of the community to find out. She thought she would be met with support but this was far from reality. She was isolated. She was made to feel like she was the problem. She was groomed and we failed her. As a society, as friends, as family. We failed her. Victim A could no longer do this and committed suicide.

Some key events that happened in Victim A’s case were as follows: Naveed lied about his religion, he blackmailed her into staying with him, her parents and friends were not educated about grooming so did not know what to do, she was also not educated on the help that was available to her. Victim A’s story is not an isolated event.

Grooming happens under our noses and as individuals we do not realise. AGTF was set up in order to prevent this through education, raising awareness and being a sole organisation where victims can come forward.

What we can see from Victim A’s story is that there were many different factors at play. Both influencing her towards the perpetrator but also those factors which stopped her from coming back.

The Theory When we are in a plane, the flight attendants instruct us to put the oxygen mask on ourselves first, before we help anyone. With that in mind, we are quick to notice the faults of others, however, we need to look at OUR own faults.

We focus on how others outside our community attack and target us but we also need to take into consideration how we are making our community a difficult place for victims to come back to. This concept coined the puzzle theory.

Envision a jigsaw puzzle, it has many different pieces that all fit certain pieces which ultimately creates the final product. Applying this to grooming, there are many different factors that facilitate someone being groomed such as: alcohol and drug addiction, blackmail, the community, financial control, mental health and many others. In order to prevent and reduce the number of victims, it is essential for us to understand these factors. For example, if the perpetrator has a financial hold over the victim, she is less inclined to leave him as she depends on him. Now imagine another piece of the puzzle being added to the situation, such as alcohol and drug addiction. She relies on him to fund that addiction. With that control held by the perpetrator, it is harder for not only the victim to leave, but also for organisations to bring her home. A single case could have 10-15 factors making the puzzle and others could have

much less. It is essential for us to understand this and note that we cannot treat grooming the same as other crimes due to its unique level of complexity.

One piece of the puzzle that is always prevalent in every case is our community. The community is our backbone and no matter what, how they react will always be important to each grooming case. Yes, as a community we come together in times of need but our community can also be very toxic, making it harder for victims to share their experiences and tell us that they are being groomed.

It is very common within our community to victim blame and make them feel like Pariahs. Rather than being the backbone for these girls and their family, we judge them and isolate them further. The common phrase we hear is: “Lok Ki Kehnge.” We hear it in every possible context.

The judgement received by victims for doing certain things makes it harder for them to express their hardships. As a result, the publication of accurate statistics are prevented because many victims feel scared to come forward. This is further compounded by victims being afraid of any shame that could be directed towards their family, whilst also being silenced in attempt to avoid judgement. As official statistics are not published due to a lack of Sikh girls coming forward,

Use our voices.

Educate. Spread awareness. Stand together.

wider society fails to recognise the extent and severity of Sikh girls being groomed.

The fear of being judged pushed Victim A away from her family.

Within the community, we put a large value on the code of silence.

The code of silence refers to how we compel people to silence in times of despair because the concept of shame overrides the need for help. We silence victims and families due to the fear of them not being accepted in society. The code of silence applies to a lot more than just grooming.

We tend not speak about issues that impact us in negative ways, be that: mental health, alcohol and drug abuse or even trivial things like your child not doing well at school.

Another fundamental issue within our community is the generational communication gap. This is where there is a lack of education and discussion between generations, which leads to a continuation of toxic traits within the Punjabi community. For example, the older generation tend not to understand issues prevalent in the youth i.e. cyber bullying or grooming. Rather than the younger generation educating their elders, they choose silence. We cannot expect our elders to know how to deal with issues that they did not experience themselves. Therefore, to prevent another situation similar to that of Victim A and prevent a reoccurring cycle of toxic behaviours, we need to speak up.

Let us be a voice for the voiceless.

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we speak of the Punjab today or when a Sikh considers the place of their ideological origins. It is not.

Why is this? For me the overriding factor has been the diminishing of our scholars and thinkers, our playwrights and poets, our authors and scientists. For forty years, an educated person in Punjab has been treated as a potential threat and unsurprisingly universities and colleges have suffered the greatest loss. Those who were not made to disappear, migrated off their own accord, were resigned to a life of ignominy or handed themselves over to do the bidding of the State. Outside of Punjab it has been a similar story where Sikhs who speak with eloquence and rationale have more often than not been threatened, discredited or bought.

Every year, I wait with bated breath for 7th June.

A multitude of events over decades in South Asia culminated in the battle of Amritsar in June 1984. Following the partition of the Punjab, social upheaval and Machiavellian manoeuvring transcended on both sides of the border. But it was on the Indian side where the bread-basket of the nation had the greatest claim to feel aggrieved. Language, identity and investment policies had left Punjabis feeling isolated, but it was ecological and environmental decisions which would see them challenge the authority of the

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State. River waters were redirected, multi-national corporations introduced the covertly diabolical Green Revolution and territory was Unionised including the nominated Punjabi capital- Chandigarh. That these issues were ultimately at the heart of what led to the Army invading Darbar Sahib should surely be the basis of the dialogue that flows from 1984. But it is not. That these issues remain as they were almost four decades ago, with no advancement to the benefit of Punjab or its people should surely be our focus when

The Government codename for the invasion of Darbar Sahib is widely known and referenced.

But less is known of the sister to Operation Bluestar, an action codenamed Woodrose. In fact so little is known about Woodrose that we can’t be certain of what it entailed, although most writers are of the consensus that it involved Bluestar-type incursions into major-Gurdware and institutions across the Punjab and India.

Launching simultaneously in June, the Armed forces wanted to prevent other citizens from making their way to Amritsar which they did with preventative action. There were numerous Sikh leaders and activists outside of Amritsar whom had been identified and would come to meet a similar fate as their brethren in the besieged complex.

But more than all this, Woodrose is intimated to have continued for months that followed and provided cover for the attack on

intellectuals. By ridding society of these people and denigrating the means of public discourse and civic engagement, the vacuum for any meaning to what was happening was left wide open to be filled with propaganda. The polarising opinions that we see of Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale have been engineered in this way to deflect attention from the real issues at hand. He has been made into a scapegoat, reviled by those who have bought into the propaganda and un-welcomingly revered by others who make an empty obeisance to his cause.

Even rudimentary knowledge of Sant Jarnail Singh through his speeches and an analysis of his proven deeds shows him to be a man of moral character and the highest principle. His dedication was to the problems that faced the Punjab and the Sikh Panth, and he worked tirelessly toward resolution.

Today, those who besmirch his name provide fodder for the agonising demise of the land of the five rivers, whilst those who hide behind his name but refrain from engaging in resolutions stoke the fire that burns his reputation.

It annoys me that what holds us back from readdressing the real issues at hand are simple myths that could and should be dispelled with ease. Time and again the question is asked, ‘what was Sant Bhindranwale doing in the complex?’ To answer this, one need look no further than the Dharam Yudh morcha of the early 1980s led by the Shiromani Akali Dal. When Sant Jarnail Singh merged his agitation (encouraging Sikhs to refrain from intoxicants) with that of the leading Sikh political party, he became one of a few men who was leading the Panth in its

cause to enact the Anandpur Sahib Resolution.

Those leading the campaign alongside him were based within the complex at Amritsar which has been a customary base of operations for the custodians of the Sikh people for centuries. His arrival at Amritsar in 1982 was at the invitation of the President of the Akalis himself, Sant Harchand Singh Longowal, and was made with the complicity of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) who control the complex – then under the stewardship of Gurcharan Singh Tohra. As head of the Dam Dami Taksal, the premier Sikh seminary, Sant Jarnail Singh was already widely known of, but as a leading figure in the Dharam Yudh morcha his name came to be known internationally and with it came the responsibility and workload that required him to remain in close proximity to his peers in Amritsar.

But discussion of the very real problems that Punjab faces, and their solutions, are beginning to arise all year round as a small but promising new breed of intellectuals have tentatively held their heads above water. It is neither important nor pertinent to name such characters, all who have conducted their own research, drawn their own conclusions and opted to join the path less trodden, but exist they do which is a cause for celebration. The long arm of the oppressor has shirked the collar of so many leading Sikhs that for twenty years at least have controlled the output of those who dare to question beyond the annual remit of demonstrative gatherings. But there is hope in this new global village, shown by those

who are drawing road maps of how these events are of importance to them and in what way they fit into their lives.

Some have begun to write, whilst others think and create; all avidly read.

It is a breath of fresh air from that which we have seen in the years gone by. The forced disappearance of Punjabi intellectuals is the unspoken war that has been fought since Indian Armed forces invaded Darbar Sahib in Amritsar. That orchestrated campaign by those in power to permanently silence key thinkers has denied our society of those who might have helped it to advance. Men who called themselves Sikhs sat alongside others who merely don the garb, to abduct targeted people as they walked in broad daylight. It must be shocking to witness, let alone endure.

We might never know what Woodrose entailed; perhaps a growing class of intellectuals may find out.

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When there is such a burning desire for freedom, then one prepares to stake their life.

The guerrilla general, Bhai Harmeet Singh PhD alias Happy, was preeminent among the Sikh generals in this current phase of the struggle for Sikh national liberation. Bhai Harmeet Singh was born on 24th September 1981, at the home of their father Sardar Avtar Singh on the historic and sacred ground of Chheharta Sahib, district Amritsar. Bhai Sahib’s family were well-educated and economically strong, he was the only son to his parents and the only brother to his sister. From their childhood, Bhai Sahib was religious in nature, mild and very sociable. He was very talented in his studies from childhood and after completing his schooling, Bhai Sahib studied at Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar Sahib. It is here that he pursued a PhD in Religious Studies, after completing a master’s degree in Psychology and Religious Studies.

Around 2005-06 there was an atmosphere of frustration and resentment in the Sikh community due to the all-out attacks by Indian agencies on the Sikh community in Punjab. As a highly educated Sikh youth, Bhai Harmeet Singh had limitless love for the Sikh

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nation. He was keenly aware of the situation of the Panth, Punjab and all the attacks on the Sikh community by Indian agencies.

Bhai Sahib also recognised that anti-Sikh cults were being spread

by Indian agencies whilst also having their hand in the drugs epidemic that had captured the youth of Punjab. Bhai Sahib was deeply aware of all the conspiracies of the Hindutva forces against Sikhs and used to constantly focus on the welfare and advancement of the Sikh nation, devoting his energy towards preventing the attacks of the enemy. Bhai Sahib would work hard to reach the youth who displayed an interest in education and Sikhi, allowing them to engage in thinking about the future, the welfare of the Sikh nation and Punjab.

While studying at Guru Nanak Dev University Amritsar, Bhai Sahib would visit Sri Darbar Sahib daily, listening to Kirtan and Gurbani, remaining absorbed in Seva and Simran. At Sri Darbar Sahib, he did an Ardas daily at the feet of Sri Guru Ram Das Ji Maharaj: “O Guru, Sustainer/Nourisher of the poor, have mercy on me, give me the courage, initiative and wisdom to

serve the Panth so that this life can be complete and successful.”

Being well-educated and knowledgeable in world history and politics, Bhai Sahib soon realised that remaining within the confines of the Indian constitution and legal system it is impossible to further the struggle for the welfare and rights of the Sikh nation. In these times he nurtured the dream of struggling for the Sikh nation in his heart and would do an Ardas: “Guru Ji, through your blessings show me a path.” One day whilst doing his regular worship visits of Sri Darbar Sahib, Bhai Sahib met Jathedar Bhai Harminder Singh Nihang (Shaheed). Jathedar Harminder Singh had that day come to Punjab from Goa. The meeting of these two warriors, at this time, was according to God (Akaal Purakh), who had reconciled the two. Both had in their hearts the pain of the Sikh nation and a heartfelt longing to resolve the affairs of the Sikhs. This meeting in the Parikarma of Sri Darbar Sahib would see a pair of warriors form a force that would go into the future together to create new history.

With this meeting, the two warriors made such an alliance with each

other that their martyrdom gave birth to an immortal friendship.

Both diamonds of the Panth honoured their lives by sacrificing themselves for the Sikh nation and earned their comfortable place in the lap of the Guru Sahibans.

The meeting of these two brothers at Sri Darbar Sahib established their relations, after which, whenever Jathedar Harminder Singh Nihang came to Punjab, they met with Bhai Harmeet Singh and shared Panthic views. In a time of relations between these two warriors during 2007, the ‘Sauda Sadh’ (a cult leader) and an enemy of the Sikh nation, Gurmit Ram Raheem, under the shadow of Indian agencies, imitated Panth De Vali Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj and issued an enormous challenge to the Sikh nation. The followers of the cult leader, along with help from the police, fired upon Sikhs that were engaged in a peaceful demonstration to show their upset and anger, which resulted in the martyrdom of 2 Singhs.

Consequently, the wicked society of this cult (Dera Premis) with the support of the Indian government, continued to issue challenges.

There was an atmosphere of resentment and frustration throughout the Panth. Sikh youth were looking towards the Khalistani militant leaders sitting outside of Punjab, who since 1995, lacked progress in the armed struggle and had been spending their days with a line drawn under armed struggle. Even so, the Sikh youth had hoped that perhaps in a time of such adversity, these leaders would make the effort to revive the struggle, allowing it to flourish once again and direct

the Sikh youth. However, no such leader or organization carried out any fruitful venture, further increasing the frustration held in the Sikh nation.

Throughout Punjab, the butchers, touts and informants within the police forces who had been sitting comfortably for years, without any fear, suddenly became alert.

In such a time, Jathedar Harminder Singh Nihang, taking the Shield and Shelter of the Guru Sahibans, left his home and family to mobilize the Sikh youth for the struggle for freedom. Bhai Harmeet Singh became their first and closest ally during this time whilst studying for his PhD. However, being so steadfast in their fight for freedom, Bhai Sahib abandoned their education, a well-settled worldview and the warm attachment of family for the sake of the Sikh nation. Instead, Bhai Sahib chose to travel along the dangerous path of the gallows, the path of Sikh struggle, where one’s life constantly hangs in the balance. Bhai Sahib merged day and night into One, and together along with Jathedar Bhai Harminder Singh Nihang, joined the Sikh youth in Punjab as well as those from other states in Hindustan, towards Panthic thinking.

Seeing these circumstances, Bhai Harmeet Singh went underground on the evening of 5th November 2008, leaving home and family. They dedicated themselves to moving the Sikh struggle for freedom forward under the leadership of Jathedar Harminder Singh Nihang. From that day, Bhai Sahib never took a single step towards home or contacted any members of his family. In the same year, a massive quantity of weapons and explosives were found by Punjab Police in the vicinity of Jagraon, which destroyed the sleep of Indian agencies. Shortly after this, a prominent leader of the RSS and an ally of the Sauda Sadh, Rulda Singh, together with the staunch ideologue and opponent of Sikhs, Lally Sharma, were both assassinated. Understanding the fickle nature of the times and utilising the strategies of guerrilla warfare, Jathedar Harminder Singh Nihang evaded Indian agencies by leaving Hindustan and arriving in Malaysia, subsequently setting up base. Bhai Harmeet Singh was then called and the covert headquarters of the Khalistan Liberation Force were established. Under the guidance of his Jathedar, Bhai Harmeet Singh undertook special training in all types of weapons and the strategies of guerrilla warfare.

As is the requirement of the times, Bhai Sahib also undertook specializations in computer networks, hacking, encryption, secure communications and the field of modern technology. To further the policy of their Jathedar,

Jathedar Harminder Singh Nihang, together with those Jhujaru Singhs who took part in the Sikh struggle, those devotees dedicated to the Sikh nation, met and reorganised the Khalistan Liberation Force.

In this first meeting, those who gathered selected Bhai Harminder Singh Nihang as their Jathedar. In May of 2007, under the command of their Jathedar, Jhujaru Singhs attacked the convoy of the enemy Ram Raheem with a bomb. Even though he escaped due to his tight security cordon, his security personnel were killed. Indian agencies were completely shaken.

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Bhai Sahib connected with other Jhujaru Sikh youth and provided training to them.

The following day, according to the newspaper headlines:

In 2009, Bhai Sahib re-entered India with his associates in their attempt to carry out a revolutionary action. In their crosshairs was a perpetrator of the November 1984 Sikh genocide, a fanatic Hindutva leader Dr Bhud Prakash, who was deliberately released and evaded a conviction by a Hindustani court. The reconnaissance for this action was carried out by Jathedar Harminder Singh Nihang himself along with Bhai Harmeet Singh and the day of 31st October 2009 was chosen for the assassination. The Jhujaru Singhs had already ascertained that the area where Budh Prakash had a clinic and office was located in a very busy area of Delhi. This meant that locals as well as police could gather soon after any gunfire outside his office. There were armed security guards outside the office who could quickly enter at the sound of gunfire. For these reasons a special knife was selected for the assassination. Bhai Harmeet Singh entered the office in disguise as a patient, and upon seeing the correct moment and with great tenacity the warrior made his strike and assassinated this enemy of the Sikhs, subsequently making their escape.

A police officer said, “On Saturday evening, an unknown person carried out a knife attack inside Kashyap’s clinic, striking him twice, on his head and chest.

“

Times of India, November 2, 2009

“A perpetrator of the widespread Sikh killings, Dr Bhud Parkash Kashyap, was assassinated by the KLF. “On the occasion of the 25th anniversary of Indira Gandhi’s assassination, the KLF paid tribute to the martyrs of 1984”. This operation has shaken the remaining perpetrators of the mass Sikh killings who participated during the genocide.

“

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“

Indian Express, November 3, 2009

Police and Indian intelligence agencies were surprised when the KLF took responsibility for this operation. Heavy search efforts were made to capture the Jhujaru Singhs, but after a few days of this action, with the blessings of Guru Sahibans, the Singhs returned to Malaysia. After the arrest of some Singhs in 2010, Indian agencies were alarmed to find out about the Khalistan Liberation Force base in Malaysia. Making strict security provisions and keeping one step ahead of the Indian agencies and the police in Malaysia, and despite all the best efforts to capture the Singhs, Jathedar Harminder Singh Nihang and Bhai Harmeet Singh managed to evade multiple raids and successfully leave Malaysia.

After some time, they both arrived in Pakistan.

From 2010 to 2014, Jathedar Harminder Singh Nihang travelled to various countries in Europe, North America and South East Asia to intensify the desire for Khalistan and inspire the Sikhs across the world. During this time, Bhai Harmeet Singh continued to perform his services in Jathedar’s absence. Then in November 2014, with intelligence gathered from traitors, the Sikh nation’s precious diamond Jathedar Harminder Singh Nihang was arrested and extradited to India from Thailand.

After his arrest, Bhai Harmeet Singh being the Deputy Chief, carried out all the responsibilities of the Khalistan Liberation Force with excellence. With his expertise in technology and safe communication, Bhai Harmeet Singh and Jathedar Harminder Singh established contact with

The Indian intelligence agencies were utterly perplexed after such Jhujaru actions; they did not understand who was carrying out widespread assassinations of enemies of the Sikh nation. All these actions were led by Jathedar Harminder Singh Nihang, under the operational command of Bhai Harmeet Singh PhD. Over the last 10 years, nearly every action carried out had the contribution of Bhai Harmeet Singh PhD. In 2018, after the martyrdom of Jathedar Harminder Singh Nihang in jail, Bhai Harmeet Singh PhD was made the head of the Khalistan Liberation Force.

Bhai Sahib continued to keep the struggle alive. In September 2018, under Bhai Harmeet Singh PhD’s command, the Jhujaru Singhs attacked police stations in Jalandhar, Maqsood and Chandigarh. Then in November 2018, the anti-Sikh Narakhdhari Bhawan was attacked in Amritsar Sahib with grenades and some Narakhdhari followers were dispatched from this world.

Every minor and major incident in Punjab was linked to Jathedar Harmeet Singh PhD, alias Happy, by the Punjab police and Indian intelligence agencies.

The police and intelligence agencies officers admitted in the media:

“

Harminder Singh Nihang was a very intelligent and dangerous Khalistani leader, but Harmeet Singh PhD is more intelligent and more dangerous than him, which is currently the biggest and most prominent challenge for Indian security agencies.

“

each other while the Jathedar was in prison and kept the Sikh struggle established. With the minds and tactics of these two warriorsm, many revolutionary actions were undertaken to fruition.

Punjab police chief’s statement Indian Express newspaper on November 22, 2018

Bhai Harmeet Singh PhD, now the Jathedar, was devoted to the Sikh struggle with every fibre of his being; his only goal in life being to fight for the Sikh nation’s wellbeing and the independence of Khalistan. It is for this reason that he did not even consider marriage.

Bhai Sahib was very educated and a world class scholar, but he preferred to remain anonymous and did not have any desire of recognition or praise. Instead, he desired to stay away from such things and spend every moment and breath working for the wellbeing of the Sikh nation. Bhai Sahib was a unique saint soldier of this present day, and it is very difficult at this time to find another like him.

With such resilience and firm dedication to the Sikh struggle, Jathedar Harmeet Singh PhD emerged as a major undertaking for Indian security and intelligence agencies. For a long time, these agencies and those hidden traitors within the Sikhs desired to eliminate Bhai Sahib. In the end, that day came on 27th January 2020, on which the body of this pillar of the current day struggle for Khalistan was forever taken away from us.

Information provided by the family and close associates of Shaheed Jathedar Harmeet Singh PhD

At the historic Dera Chahal Gurdwara Sahib, Lahore, Bhai Sahib was returning from their daily routine when they became the target of the bullets of Indian agency’s hired killers.

With their martyrdom the Sikh struggle suffered a great loss.

In bowing his head at the feet of the Sikh Gurus, Shaheed Jathedar Harmeet Singh PhD, alias Happy, forever returned to the lap of the Guru Sahibans. Bhai Sahib also joined the Sahibzadeh of Kalgidhar Dasmesh Pita Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj and the Shaheeds of the Sikh nation in this illustrious and long line of aweinspiring souls. By walking on this established path, we must meet our duty and make a contribution for the liberation struggle of Khalistan, this is a true tribute to the martyrs of Khalistan.

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ranging from: the West Midlands 3 case (3 Sikh human rights activists who faced extradition to India), Jagtar Singh Johal’s illegal detention in India and the farmers’ protest.

Unsaid DIGITAL A platform to make our community aware.

Unsaid Digital is a media publication which works in partnership with Sikh Youth UK. The organisation was set up over a year and a half ago, with the intent of writing articles that bring positive change into our community.

A few months after launching Unsaid we became a sister organisation to Sikh Youth UK and officially joined this venture together.

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Our main objective is to cover issues affecting the Sikh and Punjabi diaspora, setting the narrative straight in the midst of Indian networks trying to peddle propaganda against us as Sikhs.

We have covered some lighthearted topics too such as: the launch of the first ever Sikh Football Leagues, the premiere of Sikh Youth UK’s film, Sicily to Southall, and much more.

As the editor of Unsaid Digital I have seen first-hand the hard work that goes into every campaign and project managed by Sikh Youth UK and I could not be happier to work in partnership with such an amazing organisation.

This project is very close to my heart as I believe that understanding what we face as a community brings us all a step closer to preventing certain issues from happening again.

Throughout this journey, our key focus has been to remain true to our core values and be fearless and outspoken about such issues.

Our journey has been a rollercoaster of emotions so far and I would like to thank Deepa for believing in me and choosing to work on this together. I would also like to thank all the readers that have been supporting us continuously, as without you, we would not be where we are today.

In fact, over the past 18 months we have covered many big stories,

Thank you for reading, sharing and helping grow Unsaid Digital.

West MIDLANDS 3 A victory if there ever was one against both India, and the UK. Both states colluded in an attempt to extradite 3 British born Sikhs showed the level of pressure on Sikhs activists. However, it was humbling to witness the whole Sikh Panth in the UK and internationally get behind the campaign, which sent shockwaves through the Sikh community when news first broke that the authorities were attempting to remand the Singhs in jail. However, with Maharaj’s Beant Kirpa, they

were all granted bail and able to fight their case - despite being placed on strict bail conditions.

The Sikh community came together outside Westminster Court for the hearing in September 2021. As always, the authorities displayed their dirty tactics by sending spies into the Sangat, Sevadars were vigilant in recognising and confronting the well-placed infiltrators on

the day. Whilst organisers coordinated outside, emotions were clear to see in the Sangat’s reactions. The monumental moment when Fateh on all cases was announced cannot be undermined. The pressure put on the establishment; Ardasa and Jaaps facilitated this moment, with both states having no option but to back down and concede victory to the Khalsa Panth.

Celebrations began as the Midlands 3 exited from court, leaving behind a strong precedent for future generations – a precedent that confirms anything is possible when the Sikh Panth unites.

Khalistan Poem Reminiscing about the victories our Sikh forefathers fought for.

Fighting against the shackles of slavery, a principle we fight for.

Shaheedi was near and bloodshed was around the streets. Fighting like lions rising to sovereignty. Breaking the bonds of fear and death.

India, you brandished us as the sons of turmoil.

Killing the youth; you degenerated Punjab’s rich soil.

Saturated the ground with innocent blood.

Flushed out the youth and diminished the good.

Through fighting legal cases, the Khalsa expelled the dark; empowered a light. One that shone far SHAHEED JASWANT SINGH KHALRA

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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

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Humility is the word, forgiveness is the virtue, and sweet speech is the magic mantra.

Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, Ang 1384

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