In a powerful show of solidarity, the Sikh United Front J&K declared on May 9, 2025, that the Sikh community, both in India and worldwide, stands unwaveringly with the Government of India in its battle against terrorism. The announcement, made during a press conference in Jammu, comes amid heightened India-Pakistan tensions following Pakistan’s shelling of civilian areas, including a deliberate attack on a Gurdwara in Poonch, and India’s retaliatory Operation Sindoor targeting terror bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir .
Led by Chairman S. Sudershan Singh Wazir, alongside prominent Sikh leaders like Kuldeep Kour (President, Istri Akali Dal J&K) and S. Manmohan Singh (Chairman, Gurdwara Singh Sabha Gole Gujral Jammu), SUF J&K condemned Pakistan’s sponsorship of terrorism, particularly its May 7 shelling in Poonch that killed 16 civilians, including three Sikhs. “The Sikh community globally supports India’s resolute actions against terrorism. We salute our Indian Defence Forces for their bravery in neutralizing Pakistan’s terror networks,” Wazir said, praising the precision strikes under Operation Sindoor. The operation was launched in response to the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists.
The Poonch Gurdwara attack, which damaged sacred artefacts and infrastructure while devotees prayed, was described as a direct assault on Sikh faith and values. Wazir accused Pakistan of attempting to sow communal discord in Jammu and Kashmir, a tactic the Sikh community rejects outright. “Our faith has always stood for peace and justice, and we will not be swayed by Pakistan’s cowardly acts,” he asserted. The community’s resolve was echoed by Sikh leaders on X, who called the attack a “heinous crime” and urged unity against terrorism.
Wazir also called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to expedite efforts to liberate PoJK, illegally occupied by Pakistan, citing a parliamentary resolution to reclaim the territory. “The Sikh community, alongside all Indians, awaits the day PoJK is reunited with India,” he said, highlighting Pakistan’s use of the region as a terror hub. This demand resonates with India’s broader narrative of targeting only terrorist infrastructure, as reiterated by officials during Operation Sindoor.
The Sikh community’s stance comes against the backdrop of intense cross-border violence, with Pakistan’s drone and missile attacks damaging homes, cars, and religious sites in Jammu, Rajouri, Poonch, and Baramulla. The tragic death of Raj Kumar Thappa, Additional District Development Commissioner of Rajouri, in a May 10 shelling attack further underscored the civilian toll. Amid blackouts, evacuations, and highway closures, the Sikh United Front’s message of solidarity strengthens India’s resolve to counter terrorism while amplifying calls for peace.
As the Line of Control remains a flashpoint, SUF J&K’s affirmation of support reflects the Sikh community’s enduring commitment to India’s security and unity, urging the international community to hold Pakistan accountable for its actions.