Rep. Chu Statement on the Situation in Punjab, India

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28) issued the following statement in response to the human rights situation in Punjab, India:

"Sikh communities around the world, including in Punjab, India, are preparing to celebrate their holy holiday of Vaisakhi. I urge India and all nations of the world to respect the rights of ethnic and religious minorities within their borders to peacefully celebrate religious holidays—without state-sponsored interference.

"There is a tremendous amount of anxiety in the Sikh community right now because of the recently imposed Internet blackouts and the mass arrests across Punjab. These are unacceptable acts of collective punishment against the Sikh community. The United States must unequivocally stand up for human rights and religious freedom everywhere in the world, including for the Sikh community in India."