SAN FRANCISCO, CA: Ranjit Singh, a32yearold Gursikh from Amritsar district in Punjab was granted political asylum on June 17, by the Asylum Director in San Francisco, California.
Ranjit Singh’s claim was based upon his political belief that “we Sikhs cannot remain a part of the Hindu India called Hindustan which Hindus call us their homeland. He is joined AISSF in 1991 and attended meetings whose goal was to guide policies within religious bases, preach nonviolence and seek support for the independence movement.
He told the asylum officer that he was asked to go Lo the police Station several times; He was questioned and at times with some rough words and reprimand to stay away from Khalistan related activities. In December 91, he was arrested in Patiala and held for three months, tortured brain washed, and had molasses thrown on his body. On March 17, 1992, he was abducted by the police and held for several days.
The Asylum Officer in his decision stated “that you have established a well-founded fear of persecution upon return to your homeland. Therefore, according to Section 208(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, your request for asylum is granted as of June 17, 1993.”
Ranjit Singh was represented by Mohinder Singh, Danville, CA’ attorney.
Article extracted from this publication >> July 23, 1993
