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Ensure safety of Sikhs in US: Sukhbir to Sushma
Tribune News Service

New Delhi, September 13
Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's US visit later this month, a delegation led by Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Badal today met External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to discuss problems faced by Sikhs living abroad.

These included visa restrictions and spurt in attacks on Sikhs in America. The delegation demanded that these issues should be part of the PM's agenda to be discussed with President Barack Obama.

Sukhbir said there was a need to initiate campaigns for sensitising the security agencies and the police abroad about Sikhs as they often become victims of mistaken identity.

"We have requested the Prime Minister that the issue of attacks on Sikhs be taken up with President Barack Obama during his US visit," said Sukhbir.

The delegation also opposed Georgia's move of refusing visa to Punjab farmers and the urged the External Affairs Minister to take up the issue with the Georgian government so the interests of farmers, who have made agriculture investments in Georgia, could be safeguarded.

"We also discussed the plight Afghanistan Sikhs. We have urged the government to make efforts for the rescue of Sikhs trapped in Iraq," Sukhbir said.

The Punjab Deputy CM said the government should delist persons who have never indulged in extremist activities or violence and went abroad due to economic reasons.