• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

Sukhi Chahal, a well-known Indian-American businessman based in US, community leader, and vocal anti-Khalistan campaigner, passed away suddenly and mysteriously in California, sending shock waves and anxiety among Indian diaspora communities and international anti-Khalistani organizations. The 56-year-old founder and CEO of The Khalsa Today was at a private dinner at a friend's home on Thursday night when his health suddenly declined after the meal. Chahal is said to have collapsed and passed away where he fell. "He was in top shape. We had talked just a few days ago. His untimely death left everyone of us shocked and suspicious, especially given the timing," said Jaspal Singh, a close friend of Chahal, in an interview with media on Saturday.

Suspicions Arise Over Timing of Death

Chahal's sudden death is just weeks ahead of a highly contentious Khalistan Referendum event planned on August 17 at Washington DC, one that he actively fought against and campaigned against. His friends and colleagues have expressed fears of foul play, especially since Chahal had been subjected to constant death threats from pro-Khalistan groups in the past few months. “He was unwavering in his stand against extremism. He never backed down, even in the face of threats. The timing of his death cannot be ignored,” said Boota Singh Kaler, another associate of Chahal based in California.

Local police authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of death. An autopsy has been ordered, and the official cause is yet to be determined. While the authorities have not ruled out natural causes, community members are urging a thorough and transparent probe due to the activist’s high-risk profile and political engagement.

Who Was Sukhi Chahal?

Sukhi Chahal was born in Punjab's Mansa district in India. He moved to the United States in 1992 upon completing his engineering studies at Guru Nanak Engineering College in Ludhiana. He took executive courses at Stanford University and UC Berkeley before establishing a successful career in Silicon Valley's technology network. Sukhi Chahal had senior positions in several top tech companies before starting Punjab Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to the education of disadvantaged children. He was also the Founder and President of The Khalsa Today, a media outlet frequently employed to express forthright opinions against separatist movements. Throughout the years, he collaborated closely with Indian government officials and US legislators to solidify India–US strategic and civil relations, particularly within the Indian-American community.

ALSO READ: Glorifying Indira Gandhi’s Killers? Canadian Journalist Attacked After Confronting Khalistani Extremists

Sukhi Chahal was well-known for advocating legal and peaceful integration of Indian immigrants within the US, regularly cautioning against extremist ideologies. "The US is a law-abiding society. Any criminal activity—particularly by foreign nationals—may result in visa revocation and lifetime bans," Chahal posted recently on his X (ex-Twitter) page. His public statements regularly condemned Khalistani propaganda overseas, making him a high-profile target for fringe elements, according to his supporters.

ALSO READ: Canada Sends First Diplomat To India, Signalling Thaw in Ties After Khalistani Row

Chahal’s sudden death has led to a wave of grief among Indian communities in the US and abroad. Many have described him as a fearless voice who dared to stand up against violent separatism while promoting unity and democratic values. “He inspired so many to speak up. We will not let his message die,” said another community leader in New Jersey.