The North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) Executive Director Satnam Singh Chahal has called on the California Assembly to approve Senate Bill 509 (SB 509), a measure designed to combat transnational repression and strengthen protections for diaspora communities.
Chahal further said that the bill, which recently passed the Assembly Appropriations Committee, would define transnational repression under California law and require law enforcement training to identify and respond to threats from foreign governments. Sikh communities in North America have faced harassment, intimidation, and surveillance, making these protections increasingly urgent, added Chahal
NAPA strongly supports SB 509 because every community deserves the right to live, speak, and advocate freely without fear of foreign interference,” said Satnam Singh Chahal. “This legislation is a crucial step in ensuring the safety and civil liberties of diaspora communities across California.” Passing SB 509 would set a strong precedent, signalling that California is committed to defending civil liberties and standing against foreign intimidation.