San Jose/Bathinda (National Times): In a strongly worded statement, prominent Sikh activist Sukhi Chahal condemned the brutal murder of social media influencer Kanchan Kumari, also known as Kamal Kaur Bhabhi, and called for the immediate extradition of accused Amritpal Singh Mehron, who has reportedly fled to the UAE.
Calling the killing an “affront to the very principles that Sikhism stands for,” Chahal denounced the perpetrators, particularly Mehron, who is believed to have orchestrated the attack under the guise of religious morality.
“Violence in the name of morality is cowardice, not courage,” said Chahal. “What happened was not maryada or sodha. It was murder—cold-blooded and premeditated.”
The influencer was allegedly lured by Amritpal Singh Mehron and his associates, assaulted, had her personal data accessed, and was ultimately murdered. Following the crime, the assailants reportedly released a video claiming responsibility, invoking “religious justice” as their motive.
Chahal, who heads a Silicon Valley-based advocacy group and is known for his vocal stance against extremism, minced no words in labeling the murder as “terrorism cloaked in religion.”
“If these men believed they were serving the Panth, they chose the most shameful path possible. This was not an act of spiritual service; it was the murder of a defenseless woman under false pretenses,” he stated.
According to police sources, Mehron fled India just hours after the murder, leaving behind his co-accused, three of whom were arrested within 24 hours by Punjab Police. The fourth accused, Mehron, is believed to be hiding in the UAE. Punjab Police have confirmed they are working to initiate the extradition process.
Chahal praised the swift action of Bathinda Police, especially SSP Amneet Kondal, for demonstrating professionalism and urgency in tracking down the accused.
“Their actions have restored some faith in the justice system. Now, it’s time to ensure Amritpal Singh Mehron is extradited and faces trial for first-degree murder,” Chahal said.
In his statement, Chahal also addressed the wider Sikh community and religious leadership, warning against the rise of extremist ideologies masquerading as religious enforcement.
“This is our moment to draw a line between faith and fanaticism. Between Sikhism’s true values of seva and the twisted ideology of slaughter in the name of honour,” he asserted.
Chahal concluded with a call to action for law enforcement, Sikh institutions, and civil society: “We demand justice. We demand accountability. And we demand that Amritpal Singh Mehron be brought back to India to face the full force of the law.”
The case has sparked widespread outrage both in India and across the Sikh diaspora, with calls for tougher action against radical vigilantes misusing religion to justify heinous crimes.
