SWALWELL STATEMENT ON TRANSNATIONAL THREATS AGAINST THE SIKH COMMUNITY IN THE U.S.

Washington, D.C. –  Today, Rep. Eric Swalwell (CA-14) released the following statement:

“The Sikh community in the United States is being targeted for who they are and for what they believe in, said Congressman Eric Swalwell.

"Credible evidence has shown the Indian government launched a campaign of transnational repression against the Sikh community in the United States and Canada. The campaign included a murder-for-hire scheme targeting prominent members of America's Sikh community, prompting the FBI to alert those targeted.

“America is a land of freedom and opportunity—a place where people come to live free from political violence and persecution.

“The actions of India's government are a serious breach of American law and challenge the longstanding relationship between the world's oldest and the world's largest democracy. Democratic nations must stand against this kind of authoritarian repression, not perpetrate it against each other.

“I’m proud to represent one of the largest Sikh communities in this country. The FBI took swift action to inform one of my constituents about threats against him, and I am thankful for that.

“I’m thankful to the Biden Administration and the FBI for prioritizing these issues and taking the necessary steps to ensure the safety of our most vulnerable communities from intimidation. I urge them to remain vigilant in ensuring our intelligence community monitors this threat and that law enforcement proactively works with Sikhs in America to protect their safety and right to freely practice their religion.

“However, I believe more must be done to prepare for and prevent instances of foreign governments targeting their political opponents in America.

“We must never back down from our responsibility as elected officials to stand up to political repression and hate in all of its forms."

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