US officials hunting for illegal immigrants at Gurdwaras in New York, New Jersey

Dubai: In a controversial move under President Donald Trump’s renewed immigration crackdown, law enforcement officials in the United States are reportedly conducting reconnaissance of gurdwaras in New York and New Jersey.

The action has drawn sharp criticism from Sikh organizations, who view it as a threat to religious sanctity and community trust.

Within hours of Donald Trump’s swearing-in as the 47th President of the United States, acting Department of Homeland Security Secretary Benjamine Huffman rescinded a Biden-era policy that limited immigration enforcement in or near “sensitive” areas, such as places of worship, schools, and hospitals.

“This action empowers the brave men and women in CBP and ICE to enforce our immigration laws and catch criminal aliens—including murderers and rapists — who have illegally entered our country,” a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson said.

“Criminals will no longer be able to hide in America’s schools and churches to avoid arrest.”

According to reports by the Press Trust of India, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials are targeting gurdwaras in New York and New Jersey, alleging that some are being used as hubs for Sikh separatists and undocumented immigrants.

Organisations push back

The crackdown has ignited fierce backlash from Sikh organisations across the country. The Sikh American Legal Defence and Education Fund (SALDEF) expressed deep alarm over the rescinding of “sensitive area” protections, describing it as a troubling shift that undermines trust and community safety.

“This policy change sends a chilling message to immigrant communities nationwide,” said Kiran Kaur Gill, executive director of SALDEF. “Gurdwaras are not just places of worship; they are vital community centres providing support, nourishment, and spiritual solace to Sikhs and others. Targeting these spaces threatens the sanctity of our faith.”

Gill highlighted the historical significance of gurdwaras as sanctuaries and community hubs. “Surveillance and enforcement actions in these spaces harken back to dark periods when governments interfered with Sikhs’ ability to freely practice their faith, often with devastating consequences,” he added.

The Sikh Coalition, another prominent advocacy group, echoed these concerns. “Gurdwaras are sacred spaces where Sikhs gather to pray, share meals, and practice their faith. Allowing armed law enforcement to conduct raids and surveillance in these spaces undermines the very essence of religious freedom,” the coalition said in a statement.

Impact on the Sikh community

Leaders warn that the directive could have lasting consequences. Reduced attendance at gurdwaras due to fear of raids and surveillance may disrupt essential religious practices and community support systems.

“This decision not only burdens the religious exercise of Sikhs but also fosters fear and division in immigrant communities,” the Sikh Coalition added.

The Trump administration’s decision to rescind protections for sensitive areas has reignited a broader debate about balancing immigration enforcement with community trust and religious freedom. While the government defends the move as essential for cracking down on illegal activity, critics argue that it jeopardizes fundamental rights and undermines the sense of safety in minority communities.