BATHINDA: Dr Swaiman Singh, who played a vital role during the struggle against farm laws at the borders of Delhi in 2020-21, tried to be heckled by some Pro-Khalistan persons at a Gurdwara in New York on Sunday afternoon. The pro khalistan elements were angry why he displayed Indian Tricolor during the farmer protest as they were angry with the happenings of June 1984 when Indian Army had stormed the Golden Temple to flush out extremists.
Despite opposition by certain office bearers of some Gurdwara committees, Dr Swaiman stood his ground and delivered a speech for which he was invited by the committee of New York Sikh Cultural Society.
A big congregation was held at NY Sikh Cultural Society Gurdwara on Sunday afternoon (wee hours of Monday in India). Dr Swaiman along with former Governor Andrew Cuomo, was invited by the gurdwara committee to deliver a lecture. During the event, a pro-Khalistani group attempted to prevent Dr Swaiman from speaking, citing his display of the Indian flag during the recent farmers' protests as their reason for objection.
Undeterred, Dr Swaiman delivered his response, challenging the group to open dialogue. He boldly invited them to bring the media from across United States to pose any questions, urging them to present concrete proof to support their claims.
Dr Swaiman speaking to TOI over phoner from USA said that it is true that Sikhs living in various parts of world are angry over the way the revered religious place was attacked by Indian state in 1984 and justice has not been delivered till now. But being an Indian, he displayed Tricolor a number of timers and I am proud of it. Whatever happened in 1984 was an attack by a government of a particular political party, it does not denote the entire India.
We may be angry with the government or party but not with India. I too was branded as Khalistani which is not right and the country should look into the grievances of Sikhs and deliver justice but opposing me by some people could not undermine India or my commitment towards people especially in India where my team is regularly working”.
The NY Sikh Cultural Society Gurdwara remains a vital community hub, fostering dialogue and cultural unity. This incident highlights the need for constructive conversations to bridge divides within our communities, he said.
Dr Swaiman’ family belongs to district Tarn Taran district in Punjab. During the farm struggle his organisation ‘5 rivers heart association’ held medical camps during the longevity of the struggle at the borders of Delhi.