Trump’s crackdown on ‘illegal immigrants’ reaches New York, New Jersey Gurdwaras; sparks Sikh outrage

DHS Immigration visits at Gurdwaras in New York, New Jersey

Immigration enforcement officials from the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) conducted visits to gurdwaras in New York and New Jersey on Sunday to investigate the presence of undocumented immigrants, drawing strong reactions from Sikh organizations.

The Trump administration has consistently used the term “illegal aliens” to refer to undocumented immigrants. A DHS spokesperson defended the actions, stating that they are aimed at apprehending individuals with criminal records, including violent offenders, to ensure public safety.

“This action empowers CBP and ICE agents to enforce immigration laws and apprehend criminal aliens, including murderers and rapists. Criminals will no longer hide in schools and churches to avoid arrest,” the spokesperson added.

The administration recently rescinded Biden-era guidelines that prohibited immigration enforcement near sensitive locations, such as places of worship and schools. Vice President J D Vance justified the policy, saying such measures are necessary for public safety, even if they involve religious sites.

Sikh organizations express alarm

Sikh advocacy groups expressed deep concern over the visits and policy changes. The Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF) condemned the actions, calling them a threat to the sanctity of Sikh places of worship.

“We are deeply alarmed by the elimination of protections for sensitive areas and the subsequent targeting of gurdwaras. These actions threaten the Sikh faith’s sanctity and send a chilling message to immigrant communities,” said Kiran Kaur Gill, SALDEF’s executive director.

The Sikh Coalition also criticized the policy shift, warning that it could limit Sikhs’ ability to gather and practice their faith. “The idea that gurdwaras could face government surveillance or raids by armed law enforcement is unacceptable. This could discourage attendance and disrupt essential religious practices,” the organization said.

The visits and the broader policy changes have sparked concerns about religious freedom and immigrant rights, as the Sikh community fears diminished participation in gurdwara activities and increased vulnerability to enforcement actions.

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