Afghani Sikhs and other Minorities: Their Exodus in Their Own Words

The Sikh and Hindu communities have lived in harmony in Afghanistan for centuries and prior to the collapse of the pro-Soviet regime in 1992, there were nearly 200,000 members of the two communities. Over recent years, many Sikh and Hindu families have fled to other countries due to targeting and restrictions upon the practice of their faiths. Conditions have not improved with time and religious persecution, harassment, and even the ongoing threat of abduction and kidnapping have made living conditions in Afghanistan unbearable for these communities. Repeated suicide bombing attacks, especially at religious institutions, with increasing frequency and the government’s inability or unwillingness to provide the necessary security means the days for the community are numbered. On March 25th, 2020, terrorists from the Islamic State stormed a crowded Sikh temple and housing complex in Kabul, killing at least 25 people, and injuring eight. Today, less than 50 Sikhs remain in the country.