Description
Sikh terrorism is sponsored by expatriate and
Indian Sikh groups who want to carve out an independent Sikh state
called Khalistan (Land of the Pure) from Indian territory. Active groups
include Babbar Khalsa, International Sikh Youth Federation, Dal Khalsa,
Bhinderanwala Tiger Force, and the Saheed Khalsa Force.
Activities
Attacks in India are mounted against Indian
officials and facilities, other Sikhs, and Hindus; they include
assassinations, bombings, and kidnappings. Attacks have dropped markedly
since 1992, as Indian security forces have killed or captured numerous
senior Sikh militant leaders and have conducted successful Army,
paramilitary, and police operations. Many low-intensity bombings that
might be attributable to Sikh extremists now occur without claims of
credit.
Strength
Unknown.
Location/Area of Operation
Northern India, western Europe,
Southeast Asia, and North America.
External Aid
Militant cells are active internationally, and
extremists gather funds from overseas Sikh communities. Sikh expatriates
have formed a variety of international organizations that lobby for the
Sikh cause overseas. Most prominent are the World Sikh Organization and
the International Sikh Youth Federation.