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Sikh activist Sukhi Chahal dies in California

He is known for his advocacy against separatist movements and his support for Indian unity.

Sukhi Chahal (in turban) with former Envoy Eric Garcetti. / Courtesy of Sukhi Chahal.

Sukhi Chahal, a California-based Sikh activist known for his vocal opposition to Khalistani extremism and anti-India campaigns, died in the United States this week. Multiple sources have indicated a heart attack as the likely cause of death, though there has been no official confirmation.

Chahal was a prominent figure within Sikh communities in North America and abroad, known for his advocacy against separatist movements and his support for Indian unity. He was the founder and chairman of the Punjab Foundation, a Silicon Valley-based non-profit that supported educational programs for underprivileged children.

A consistent critic of Khalistani rhetoric in the U.S. and Canada, Chahal's public stance often placed him at the center of debate. He consistently opposed what can be called ‘Khalistani extremism’ and ‘anti-India propaganda’ in the U.S. and Canada, which often brought him into the spotlight — and at times, controversy.

 

His death has been widely acknowledged within pro-India Sikh circles. / Courtesy of Sukhi Chahal.

In the Gurpatwant Pannun case, Chahal did several interviews with the media, calling out the then Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for failing to take sufficient action against Khalistani extremists in the region.

His death has been widely acknowledged within pro-India Sikh circles. His passing has triggered an outpouring of grief across pro‑India Sikh networks around the world. However, groups associated with Khalistani ideology have yet to issue any formal response.

As of now, there has been no public announcement regarding funeral arrangements or final rites. Friends, family, and members of the Sikh community await further details.

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