At a recent meeting with US Department of Justice officials, prominent Indian-Americans, including Sikhs from Silicon Valley, denounced the recent violence against the Indian diplomatic post and diplomats in San Francisco.
The Sikh community members stated such illegal acts, which do not represent the voice of the majority, lend a poor reputation to the community, while the Indian-Americans said they felt scared and disturbed traveling to the San Francisco Consulate during the meeting on Wednesday.
They also discussed their own personal safety and the San Francisco Police Department’s inaction.
Last month, a group of supporters of Khalistan assaulted and vandalized the Indian Embassy in San Francisco, which prompted the gathering.
The demonstrators demolished the temporary security barricades put up by the local police while shouting pro-Khalistan chants, and they placed two ‘Khalistani flags’ within the Consulate’s grounds. Soon after, two consular employees took down these banners.
Later, the Khalistani sympathizers staged a demonstration in front of the Indian Embassy in Washington, where they attempted to stir violence and even threatened the ambassador. However, prompt police action stopped them from damaging the premises.
Ajay Bhutoria, a prominent community leader, sponsored two different round tables where top DoJ officials spoke to and spoke with Sikhs and Indian-Americans about concerns relating to community tensions, hate crimes, and the security of the Indian consulate.
The purpose of the gathering was to foster mutual understanding, forge closer bonds, and guarantee everyone’s safety and protection.
Leaders of the Sikh community informed DoJ that they do not support violence.
While he emphasized the safety and security of the Indian Consulate in San Francisco, which offers a vital service to the community, Bhutoria added, “We must endeavor to establish a climate where everyone feels secure to voice their ideas and concerns without fear of violence.”
Having access to services without having to deal with protesters and feeling protected is crucial, according to Bhutoria.
The debate, which took place over two days and two distinct sessions, emphasized the value of respecting and appreciating all points of view within the community and making sure that everyone gets a chance to participate in the conversation.
Harpreet Mokha and Vincent Player, officials of the DoJ, were present at the occasion to hear the community’s worries and to provide assistance.
While assuring the safety and security of the Indian embassy, its personnel, and the premises, the roundtable sought to strengthen ties between various Indian community organizations and the larger American community.
Participants spoke about ways to make sure those who want passports, visas, other OCI services may get them without having to deal with demonstrators or feeling threatened.
Participants emphasized the significance of nonviolent demonstrations as well as the need of teaching and educating local residents how to demonstrate lawfully and peacefully.
The attendees agreed that violent protesters and abusive behavior had no place in society and that it is crucial to stop such situations from happening.
Bhutoria stated: “We are here today to join together and have a discourse about how we can foster understanding, forge deeper bonds, and guarantee safety and security for everybody.”
We can start formulating plans and solutions to advance harmony, peace, and understanding within our community by getting together today, he stated.