WASHINGTON, DC – On April 11, 2025, the House Homeland Security Committee passed H.R. 7439, the Strengthening State and Local Efforts to Combat Transnational Repression Act, introduced by U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02). This bipartisan legislation directly addresses growing concerns about transnational repression, including threats faced by the Sikh community in the United States, by equipping state and local law enforcement with specialized training to identify and counter such acts.Transnational repression, defined as efforts by foreign governments to intimidate, harass, or harm dissidents abroad, has been a significant issue for Sikh Americans. Reports from organizations like the Sikh Coalition and SALDEF highlight instances of surveillance, threats, and even assassination plots against Sikh activists in the U.S. and Canada, allegedly linked to the Indian government. For example, in 2023, the U.S. Justice Department charged an Indian national in a foiled plot to assassinate a Sikh separatist leader in New York, and Canada accused India of involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Sikh activist. These incidents underscore the urgency of addressing foreign interference targeting Sikh communities advocating for issues like the Khalistan movement.Rep. Magaziner’s bill requires the Department of Homeland Security to develop training programs for state, local, tribal, campus, and territorial law enforcement, including Fusion Centers, to recognize and respond to transnational repression tactics. This is particularly relevant for Sikhs, who have reported harassment and intimidation for their political activism. “Authoritarian regimes are targeting people in America for their beliefs,” Magaziner said. “This bill ensures law enforcement can protect communities, including Sikhs, from foreign persecution.”The Sikh Coalition, which has advocated against transnational repression, welcomed the bill’s progress, noting its potential to safeguard U.S.-based Sikhs. Their 2024 report, So Many Targets, documented cases of Indian transnational repression, including threats to Sikh gurdwaras and individuals. SALDEF has also urged action, citing the FBI’s Punjabi-language PSA on reporting such threats.The legislation is part of a broader package, including the Countering Transnational Repression Act of 2025 and the Law Enforcement Support and Transnational Repression Hotline Act, reflecting bipartisan commitment to countering foreign intimidation. As the bill moves to the House floor, Sikh advocacy groups continue to call for stronger protections to ensure their community can exercise free speech without fear.