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Sikhs

All articles tagged with #sikhs

politics2 years ago

Pakistan's Complex Relationship with Sikhs: From Pilgrimages to Disappointments

Pakistan's relationship with its Sikh community and religious sites has been complex, influenced by the Khalistan movement and the economic potential of Sikh tourism. The movement, which demanded a separate Sikh homeland, transformed gurdwaras into political spaces and led to the abandonment of many Sikh religious sites. However, it also sparked a renewed interest in preserving and renovating these gurdwaras, with the Pakistani state facilitating funding and encouraging Sikh pilgrimages. The opening of the Kartarpur corridor in 2019 further highlighted the economic potential of Sikh tourism, with Pakistan estimating it generates $36.5 million per year. Despite the decline of the Khalistan movement, Pakistan continues to focus on expanding Sikh tourism to boost its struggling economy.

politics2 years ago

Sikh-Canada Relations Strained Amidst Allegations and Protests

Canadian Sikhs are grateful to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for speaking out about their fears and standing up to India, despite the risk of backlash. The Indian government denies involvement in the murder of a Sikh separatist leader in Canada, but many Canadian Sikhs remain unconvinced. Trudeau's actions have strained relations between the two countries, with India issuing a travel warning and halting visa issuance to Canadians. The Sikh community in Canada has significant political influence, with 15 members in the House of Commons. Trudeau's move risks derailing economic and political relations with India, while distracting from his efforts to address cost-of-living concerns.

international-relations2 years ago

Tensions rise as Canada's Sikh community faces India's scrutiny

The relationship between Canada and India has become tense after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused the Indian government of being behind the murder of a Sikh activist with a Canadian passport on Canadian soil. India has suspended visa processing for Canadian citizens in response. The Sikh separatist movement, which calls for an independent Sikh homeland in Punjab, is still active within the Sikh diaspora in Canada. Sikhs in Canada feel pressure and fear for their safety, while Canadian Hindus are concerned about the rise of radical sentiments among the Sikh community. The situation highlights the importance of free speech and the need for evidence to substantiate allegations.

international-relations2 years ago

Sikh Community in Punjab and Canada Faces Threats Amid India-Canada Dispute

The ongoing diplomatic row between India and Canada over the murder of a Sikh separatist leader is causing concern among Sikhs in Punjab. Some fear backlash from India's Hindu-nationalist government and worry about the impact on their prospects for a better life in North America. The Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, accused Indian government agents of potential involvement in the killing, leading to a series of retaliatory measures from India. Sikhs, who make up a majority in Punjab and a significant population in Canada, are concerned about deteriorating diplomatic relations and declining economic prospects in Punjab. The fear is that this dispute may affect student visas and create hurdles for those aspiring to go to Canada.

politics2 years ago

The Rise of Sikh Influence in Canada: A Brief Explanation

Sikhs have a significant presence and influence in Canada, with their population doubling in the last 20 years. They have made substantial contributions to various sectors, including construction, transport, and banking, and many own successful businesses. The Sikh community's success can be attributed to their networking through gurdwaras and their ability to collect grants for funding election campaigns. With 18 Sikh MPs in Canada, including eight seats completely controlled by Sikhs, political parties are cautious not to displease the community.