Rep. David Valadao (R–Hanford) and Jim Costa (D–Fresno) have introduced legislation to formally recognize and commemorate the Sikh Genocide of 1984.
Rep. Josh Harder (D–Tracy), Rep. Vince Fong (R–Bakersfield) and Rep. John Duarte (R–Modesto) signed on the bill as cosponsors.
The backstory: The Sikh Genocide started in June 1984, when Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi ordered the military to assault Sri Darbar Sahib, also known as The Golden Temple.
- The Indian Army used heavy artillery and tanks to attack the complex during Operation Blue Star.
- Thousands of Sikhs were killed in the attack, which marked the beginning of the Sikh Genocide.
- Violence against Sikhs continued throughout 1984 following the assassination of Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
Driving the news: Local grassroots efforts to recognize the Sikh Genocide paved the way for the new federal legislation.
- In 2016, the City of Fresno passed a resolution formally recognizing the genocide, and last year Asm. Jasmeet Bains (D–Delano) had her bill passed in the California Legislature to formally recognize the genocide.
- Over 500,000 Sikhs live in the United States. California has the largest Sikh population in the nation, with most of the Golden State’s Sikhs residing in the Central Valley.
What they’re saying: “Sadly, many Sikhs have been targeted for their religious beliefs throughout history, including during the 1984 genocide,” Valadao said. “The Central Valley is home to a vibrant Sikh community and I’m proud to stand with them in demanding recognition and accountability for this horrific event in their history. This resolution is a small but important step to commemorate this tragedy and honor the innocent victims who lost their lives while practicing their faith.”
- Costa said, “As we mark the 40th anniversary of the Sikh Genocide, we remember a dark chapter in history that inflicted pain on Sikh families and communities. This is not just a distant tragedy – it hits home for us here in the San Joaquin Valley, where so many of our Sikh neighbors have shared their stories of loss, survival, and resilience. This resolution is more than a symbol – it’s a time to recognize this horrific time that our Sikh community experienced.”
- Naindeep Singh, the Executive Director of the Jakara Movement, thanked the Central Valley’s lawmakers for the resolution.
- “This resolution is not just about acknowledging the past but ensuring that future generations understand the truth about the 1984 Sikh Genocide,” Singh said. “For Sikh youth and activists, this is more than a political milestone – it’s a validation of our elders’ resilience and a commitment to never allow history to forget.”
