Harjit Kaur, a 73-year-old Sikh grandmother who has lived in California for over 30 years, was arrested by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on 8 September, igniting anger and sympathy across the Sikh community. She had previously applied for asylum, which was denied in 2012, and had been reporting to immigration authorities every six months since.
Her family recalls that during a visit at the Mesa Verde ICE Processing Center in Bakersfield, California, she expressed despair, saying she would rather die than remain in the detention facility. Her daughter-in-law, Manjit Kaur, said the arrest was deeply shocking, given that Harjit Kaur has no criminal record and has faithfully complied with all immigration requirements.
Over the years, Harjit Kaur had worked as a seamstress, paid taxes, and helped raise her children, who are now US citizens. Despite repeated attempts, neither she nor ICE has been able to secure emergency travel documents from the Indian consulate to return her to India. Her family says she has always been willing to self-deport once the documents are provided.
Her detention has sparked protests in California and support from public officials, including US Congressman John Garamendi and California State Senator Jesse Arreguin, who have called for her immediate release. Critics of ICE argue that peaceful individuals like Harjit Kaur, with no criminal history, should not be detained, highlighting the human cost of strict immigration enforcement.
Allegations have emerged regarding her treatment in custody, including being denied a chair, bed, or water, and being provided non-vegetarian meals despite dietary needs. ICE maintains that detainees receive full healthcare and 24-hour emergency care.
Community leaders emphasize Harjit Kaur’s contributions and character, noting her decades of service and support for others in the Sikh community. Protests and advocacy efforts continue as her family and supporters call for humane treatment and expedited travel documentation.
