23-09-2023 : A Kashmir-based Sikh organization has voiced its perspective on the recent India-Canada dispute, labeling it as nothing more than a “political gimmick” orchestrated by the ruling establishment to secure votes in upcoming elections. The organization emphasized the Sikh community’s deep-rooted integration into the fabric of India.
Jagmohan Singh Raina, Chairman of the All Parties Sikh Coordination Committee (APSCC), expressed his views to reporters, highlighting the political exploitation prevalent in contemporary Indian politics. He asserted, “Everything is politically exploited. Sikhs are an integral part of this country. Since RSS came into power, the only agenda it has is that they will talk about ‘gharwapsi’ whether it be in Muslims, Sikhs, or anybody. We are not going to tolerate it.”
Raina went on to contend that the India-Canada situation, which had recently made headlines, was primarily a strategic move to secure votes during elections and should not be construed as a genuine diplomatic issue. He underscored the Sikh community’s progressive contributions to the nation and affirmed their commitment to continue their diligent efforts.
In addressing the contentious topic of Khalistan, Raina asserted that it had been manipulated into a political narrative, drawing parallels with the Kashmir issue to serve political interests. He emphasized that Khalistan was not a sentiment held by the Sikh community at large but was rather a construct of politicians seeking electoral advantage. Raina firmly stated, “It is never liked by any Sikh. It has only come out from the mouth of the politicians, not from the people.”
Highlighting their previous involvement in supporting various political parties, the APSCC Chairman disclosed a significant shift in their approach. The organization had previously aligned itself with different political parties in the hope of securing the rights and interests of the Sikh community. However, in light of recent developments, Raina announced that the APSCC had decided to boycott political parties and their leaders.
Raina detailed a new strategy, explaining that the organization would seek ideal candidates from within the Sikh community to represent their interests through a mass contact program to be executed across the state. This approach, he believed, would ensure that power rested with the community itself, rather than being used solely as a vote bank, thus advocating for a more genuine representation of Sikh concerns in the political landscape.