- By Shivangi Sharma
- Wed, 29 Oct 2025 03:46 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
A major controversy has erupted in the United States after distressing images surfaced of 21-year-old Punjabi truck driver Jashanpreet Singh appearing in court without his turban, triggering outrage among Sikh organisations, civil-rights groups, and members of the Indian diaspora. A Change.org petition, addressed to the US Media Regulatory Authority and local law-enforcement agencies, condemned what it calls the unjust portrayal and treatment of Singh. It criticised authorities for forcing him to appear bare-headed, calling the move an attack on Sikh values.
“Jashanpreet has been stipped of his turban, a deeply significant symbol of his faith and identity. This act is not only an infringement on his personal beliefs but an assault on our entire community’s cultural and religious values,” the petition stated.
Immigration Status And Court Proceedings
According to court documents, Singh is a resident of Yuba City and reportedly entered the United States illegally through the southern border in 2022. He possesses valid Employment Authorisation Documents until 2030 and holds a commercial driver’s licence.
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Officials confirmed that he remains in custody without bail and will reappear before a judge on November 4, where he is expected to be provided a Punjabi interpreter.
Fatal Crash Raises Serious Allegations
The case stems from a fatal multi-vehicle crash on a freeway, in which Singh’s truck allegedly slammed into an SUV before plowing into several more vehicles. At least three people were killed in the collision, and four others sustained injuries. Dashcam footage appears to show that the driver did not apply the brakes. Authorities have accused Singh of being under the influence of drugs at the time of the incident.
Family Rejects Drug Allegations
Singh’s family in India has rejected the claims, insisting that he is a baptised Sikh who does not consume intoxicants. They have urged officials to release CCTV footage and toxicology reports before coming to any conclusion.
Fox News correspondent Bill Melugin, citing ICE sources, described Singh as an “Indian illegal alien” who was reportedly caught and released at the California border in March 2022 under the Biden administration’s alternatives-to-detention policy. The petition further accuses media outlets of sensational coverage and “trial by reputation,” citing the principle of "innocent until proven guilty.”