Patiala (January 16, 2010): Various Sikh and Human Rights organizations including Sikh Students Federation, SAD (Panch Pardhani), Dal Khalsa, Khalsa Action Committee, Sikhs for Human Rights, Khalra Mission Organization and New Zealand Supreme Sikh Council, have severely criticized Indian authorities for denial of entry to Sikh women Shubhneet Kaur, a New Zealand citizen from Manukau, and her year’s old son Bachint Vir Singh. NZSSC representative S. Daljeet Singh who is currently in India informed that Shabneet Kaur, who migrated to NZ about a decade ago, had visited India earlier also since her migration. “Both, the mother and the son returned to New Zealand after spending allowed period here in India in February, 2008. But this time they are denied entry on their arrival Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi. ” he added.
It is notable that Shubneed had secured the visa required for the purpose, for herself and her son, from NZ based Indian Embassy. The authorities at New Delhi Airport questioned Shubneet and her son and informed their names appear in black list of Sikhs who can not enter into India. “When the matter came to my knowledge, I contacted many leaders and authorities in India and NZ, but of no avail as they were send back to NZ by India authorities with in hours of their landing.” said Daljeet Singh.
“This is against natural justice and equity, as the black listed persons are not even informed that for what reason and on what grounds they are black listed?” said SSF President Parmjeet Singh Gazi and Advocate Lakhwinder Singh, Executive Committee Member SFHR. “Last year too, Lakwinder Singh, a citizen of Canada who had visited Punjab for several times in years before 2009 was not allowed to board at Rajasansi and was forced to returned to Canada. That time too authorities denied extending any information except that this Lakhwinder’s name is in black list.” Gazi added.
Bhai Harpal Singh Cheema of Panch Pardhai accused Indian State for discriminating against Sikhs as there could not be any logic in black listing any child below seven years. “It amount to incriminating an infant who is legally incapable of holding mens rea required for constituting any guilt, under Indian Law.” added Bibi Khalra, a Human Rights Activiest.