Milpitas (California)-The North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) strongly condemns the discriminatory treatment and religious persecution faced by Dalvinder Singh, an Amritdhari Sikh tourist, during his recent detention in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Executive Director Satnam Singh Chahal stated, “We are deeply disturbed by the systematic violation of religious rights experienced by Mr. Dalvinder Singh during his 20-day detention in Abu Dhabi. The forcible removal of his turban, kada, and kanga represents not just a violation of individual rights, but an assault on the fundamental tenets of Sikhism that we hold sacred.
The treatment described – keeping a religious man bareheaded, denying him vegetarian food despite his dietary restrictions, and subjecting him to mental torture – is completely unacceptable in today’s civilised world. No individual should face such discrimination based on their faith or religious practices.” In a letter sent to Dr.Jai Kishan, MEA New Delhi, NAPA calls upon the Indian government to formally protest this incident through diplomatic channels and seek concrete assurances from UAE authorities that such violations will not recur. Mr. Dalvinder Singh and his family deserve a formal apology and appropriate compensation for the trauma, humiliation, and suffering endured.
UAE authorities must implement comprehensive training programs for law enforcement and detention facility staff regarding religious sensitivity, particularly concerning Sikh religious articles and practices. We urge the establishment of clear diplomatic protocols between India and the UAE to protect the religious rights of Indian citizens, especially religious minorities, while travelling or residing in the UAE. Chahal further said that NAPA stands in solidarity with the Singh family and calls upon Sikh communities worldwide, human rights organizations, and diplomatic missions to raise their voices against this injustice. Religious freedom is a fundamental human right that must be protected everywhere. We also acknowledge the efforts of the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi for their eventual intervention, though we believe more proactive measures could have prevented this prolonged ordeal.
This incident highlights the urgent need for greater awareness and education about Sikh religious practices in international contexts. NAPA commits to working with relevant authorities and organisations to prevent such discriminatory incidents in the future. We will continue monitoring this case and will support the Singh family in seeking justice through all appropriate legal and diplomatic channels.