Who was Sukhi Chahal? Outspoken anti-Khalistan & pro-Indian activist's death raises doubt

Sukhi Chahal, an Indian-origin businessman known for taking a strong stand against Khalistani separatist groups, died suddenly in California on Thursday night, as reported by TOI. His friend Jaspal Singh said the 50-year-old was invited to dinner at an acquaintance’s home. Everything seemed normal. But minutes after the meal, something went wrong.

“Shortly after dinner, his health suddenly deteriorated, and he died on the spot,” Singh said told TOI, on Saturday. He also added, “He was in good health, and his sudden and unexplained death has raised several questions.”

This wasn’t someone known to have underlying medical issues. Singh says the abrupt nature of Chahal’s passing, combined with the timing, has left many unsettled.

Referendum days away, questions multiply

Chahal’s death comes just weeks before the August 17 Khalistan Referendum in Washington DC. It’s an event he had been actively campaigning against.

“He was opposing it tooth and nail,” Singh said, referring to the separatist vote being promoted by pro-Khalistan outfits abroad. The timing is hard to ignore, especially for those familiar with the threats Chahal had been receiving.

Long history of threats, yet no backing down

Chahal was the founder and CEO of The Khalsa Today, a platform he used to speak out against extremism and advocate for peaceful civic life among the Indian diaspora.

Boota Singh Kaler, another acquaintance based in California, said Chahal had received regular death threats for his views. But he never backed down.

“Yet, he remained steadfast in his views and continued his advocacy fearlessly,” Kaler said. For many in the Indian community, Chahal’s death feels deeply personal.

Kaler added, “Police are investigating the incident,” and stressed, “the autopsy report will reveal the truth.”

A message to Indian immigrants

Chahal wasn’t just involved in public debates. He often used his platform to share practical advice, especially for Indian immigrants in the US.

In a recent post on his X account, he wrote, “The United States is a society of law and order. Crimes like assault by foreign visitors will not be tolerated. If you break the law in US, your US visa can be revoked, and you may be ineligible to return to the US.”

His message was clear. Follow the rules. Don’t get pulled into political or criminal activity. For Chahal, assimilation meant responsibility.

Shockwaves across the diaspora

News of Chahal’s death has rattled pro-India communities across the US and beyond. He wasn’t just a businessman. He had become a strong and visible voice pushing back against the growing influence of Khalistani groups abroad.

His advocacy made him a target. His death now makes him a symbol.

The official cause of death remains unknown. Police are continuing their investigation and are awaiting the autopsy results.

For his friends and supporters, answers can’t come soon enough.

(With inputs from TOI)