Sikhs iof New York on Turban Day
Historic Step for Sikh Safety: Bipartisan ‘Sikh American Anti-Discrimination Act’ Introduced in U.S. Congress
Babushahi Bureau
Washington, January 21, 2026:
In a major and historic development for the safety and rights of Sikhs worldwide, a bipartisan bill aimed at preventing international repression and discrimination against the Sikh community has been introduced in the United States Congress.
Drawing parallels with landmark protections enacted in American history following the Holocaust, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22), along with Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), introduced the ‘Sikh American Anti-Discrimination Act’ on Tuesday.
The proposed legislation seeks to establish a ‘Sikh Anti-Discrimination Task Force’ under the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). The task force would be mandated to work in close coordination with the Sikh community to monitor, prevent, and respond to discrimination, hate crimes, and acts of transnational repression originating from foreign soil.
According to the sponsors, the initiative represents a decisive and unprecedented step by the Department of Justice to curb violence against Sikhs and ensure institutional safeguards against targeted intimidation, harassment, and discrimination in the United States.
It is noteworthy that earlier, both the California Assembly and Senate had unanimously passed a bill addressing Sikh rights, which was later vetoed by the state Governor. That veto had drawn sharp criticism from several prominent American political leaders, who described it as being inconsistent with the fundamental rights and constitutional principles of the United States.
If passed, the Sikh American Anti-Discrimination Act will be applicable across the entire United States. Observers believe the legislation could set a global precedent, strengthening protections for Sikh communities worldwide and reinforcing America’s commitment to religious freedom and civil liberties.
