During a recent press conference at the White House, State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller faced a barrage of questions regarding the United States’ policy on Khalistan and the killing of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Miller’s responses shed light on the US stance and the need for a comprehensive investigation.
When questioned about the official US position on the Khalistan referendum organized by the US-based group Sikhs for Justice, Miller responded, “Let me take that one back as well,” avoiding a direct answer.
Regarding India’s labeling of another Khalistani leader and US citizen, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, as a terrorist and a most-wanted individual, Miller refrained from offering specific comments. Instead, he stated, “Transnational repression would be a concern for us anywhere in the world,” reiterating the US’s consistent policy stance.
Miller also discussed the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, which Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged was a result of Indian involvement. He expressed concern over the allegations and stressed the need for a “full and fair investigation.” He further urged the Indian government to cooperate with the investigation, emphasizing the seriousness of the allegations.
In response to questions about the impact of the Nijjar episode on US-India relations, Miller maintained that India remains an important partner of the United States. He highlighted the close cooperation between the US and Canada on this matter and reiterated the call for Indian cooperation in the ongoing investigation.
The statements by State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller underscore the US government’s commitment to addressing the Khalistan issue and ensuring a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s death.
