NYC Gurdwaras Targeted in Immigration Crackdown

The Sikh community in New York and New Jersey is expressing deep concern following reports of increased scrutiny at Gurdwaras (Sikh temples) by immigration authorities. This comes after the Trump administration rescinded guidelines protecting "sensitive locations," including places of worship, from immigration enforcement actions.

<img src="https://static.toiimg.com/thumb/msid-117594629,imgsize-1098295,width-400,resizemode-4/117594629.jpg" alt="US authorities conduct checks at Gurdwaras in New York, New Jersey for 'criminal aliens'">

The Rescission of Protections: The Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) decision removes previous restrictions on immigration enforcement within places of worship, schools, and hospitals. This has empowered ICE and CBP agents to conduct investigations and arrests in these previously protected areas.

Sikh Community Concerns: The Sikh American Legal Defence and Education Fund (SALDF) and the Sikh Coalition have voiced serious alarm, stating that this policy change threatens religious freedom and recalls historical periods of government interference with deadly consequences for the Sikh community.

The fear of surveillance and potential raids is impacting attendance at Gurdwaras, hindering the ability of Sikhs to freely practice their faith. The community worries about decreased attendance impacting their ability to carry out essential religious practices.

Key Concerns Highlighted:

• Threat to Religious Freedom: The policy change is seen as a direct threat to the freedom of religion for Sikhs in the US.
• Fear of Surveillance and Raids: The possibility of government surveillance and raids at Gurdwaras creates a climate of fear and uncertainty.
• Impact on Religious Practices: Decreased attendance due to fear is hindering the ability of the Sikh community to practice their faith freely.

The situation underscores the ongoing tension between immigration enforcement and the protection of religious freedom and community safety.