Sikh Federation (UK)
The Sikh Federation (UK) describes itself as a non-governmental organisation[1] that works with the main political parties to promote relevant Sikh issues.[2][3] The organisation is a major pro-Khalistan organisation and supports Khalistani secessionist activities.[4]
It is a pressure group often referred to as the first Sikh political party in the United Kingdom. SFUK says that it is based on the 'miri-piri' principle: the Sikh principle that temporal and spiritual goals are indivisible.[5]
The organisation was established in September 2003 with the aim of giving Sikhs a stronger political voice by taking an increasing interest in mainstream politics in the UK. The leadership of Sikh Federation is almost entirely made from former members of International Sikh Youth Federation (ISYF). ISYF was established by Bhindranwale’s nephew Jasbir Singh Rode and others living in order to mobilise international support for secession from India.
In 2018, India asked UK to ban SFUK for its anti-India, pro-Khalistan activities, including proscribing the organisation. The group has effectively evolved from the International Sikh Youth Federation which remains banned as a terrorist organisation in several countries.[6]
Leadership
As of August 9[update] Amrik Singh Gill was the Chairman of the Sikh Federation (UK).[7]
The Sikh Federation UK has a 15-member executive panel that manages and drives the SFUK agenda and activities, supported by a national and regional structure with local membership. The Federation's most prominent spokesman is Dabinderjit Singh.[8]
APPG
The All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for British Sikhs is currently chaired by Britain’s Sikh MP Preet Kaur Gill. Sikh Federation (U.K.) is the APPG’s secretariat.[4]
References
- ^ "Sikh Federation UK:About Us". sikhfeduk.com. Retrieved 2009-06-11.
- ^ "British Sikhs form party". BBC. September 2003. Retrieved 2009-06-11.
- ^ Dominic Casciani (13 September 2003). "British Sikhs find voice in political party". BBC. Retrieved 2009-06-11.
- ^ a b Ram, Vidya (26 July 2018). "Census category calls divide Britain's Sikh community" – via www.thehindu.com.
- ^ "About Us". Sikh Federation UK. Retrieved 17 September 2016.
- ^ "Consider banning Sikh Federation, India tells UK". The Tribune. 14 January 2018. Retrieved 26 July 2018.
- ^ "Sikhs call for new us foreign policy direction with election of Senator Obama". sikhfederation.com. 18 January 2009. Retrieved 2009-06-11.
- ^ "ORDER OF THE BRITISH EMPIRE, CIVIL". BBC News. 16 June 2000. Retrieved 2009-05-31.