January 21, 2021 (Washington, DC) -- Today, on President Biden’s first full day in office, the Sikh Coalition
sent a letter urging the new administration to support India’s farmers and take a stand for human rights.
In the letter, we ask President Biden to release a statement reminding Prime Minister Modi and the Indian government that peaceful protest--without the fear of violence and intimidation--is a fundamental right in a democracy. We also request that the State Department monitor the increasing number of retaliatory actions against farmers, protestors, and others who support the movement, and that the new administration hold Prime Minister Modi and other government officials accountable for their past and ongoing human rights abuses.
As a reminder, the farmers’ protest outside of Delhi began in November 2020 and has continued despite freezing temperatures and repressive response tactics from the Indian police and military. On January 26, the farmers are planning a peaceful tractor rally in Delhi to coincide with India’s Republic Day. It is critical that in advance of this major development, the eyes of the world--and the U.S. government--are on India. Accordingly, please consider amplifying the specific asks in
our letter as your sangats plan advocacy and media outreach in the days ahead.
Thousands of Sikh Americans have already called on their members of Congress to speak out in support of the farmers’ protest. In addition, community members have held solidarity marches and caravans in at least 16 states plus Washington, DC, over the last two months with more scheduled for this weekend.
As always, the Sikh Coalition urges you to practice your faith fearlessly.
