Sukhi Chahal, a 50-year-old Indian-origin businessman and social activist based in California, US, died under suspicious conditions on the evening of July 31, as reported by The Times of India. Chahal, widely respected for his firm opposition to Khalistani separatist groups, collapsed shortly after attending a dinner at an acquaintance’s home.
His close friend Jaspal Singh described the evening as seemingly normal until things took a fatal turn. “Shortly after dinner, his health suddenly deteriorated, and he died on the spot,” Singh told TOI on Saturday. “He was in good health, and his sudden and unexplained death has raised several questions.”
What happened before his death?
Chahal’s untimely death comes just weeks ahead of the scheduled Khalistan Referendum in Washington, DC, set for 17 August, an event he had been actively campaigning against. His vocal resistance to pro-Khalistan movements made him a known figure among Indian communities and, reportedly, a frequent recipient of threats.
“He was opposing it tooth and nail,” said Singh. The timing of his death, so close to the referendum, has led to growing unease among those who knew him, especially considering his history of being targeted for his outspoken views.
Who was Sukhi Chahal?
As per reports, Chahal was more than a businessman; he was the founder and CEO of The Khalsa Today, a platform dedicated to promoting peaceful civic discourse and challenging extremism. His efforts had earned him both admiration and animosity, particularly from fringe pro-Khalistan factions.
Boota Singh Kaler, another acquaintance, confirmed that Chahal had received repeated death threats. “Yet, he remained steadfast in his views and continued his advocacy fearlessly,” Kaler said. The Indian diaspora in The US described Chahal’s death as ‘deeply personal’, many saw Chahal as a courageous and principled leader.
Chahal wasn’t just involved in political discourse. He was also a guide for Indian immigrants navigating life in the United States. In one of his recent posts on X (formerly Twitter), he reminded followers, “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.”
For Chahal, assimilation into American society was more than cultural. It was also a civic and legal responsibility. His messages consistently warned against getting drawn into unlawful or extremist activities.
What does the California Police say?
Local police in California are actively investigating the incident. An autopsy has been ordered, and results are awaited to determine the exact cause of death. “The autopsy report will reveal the truth,” Kaler noted, as speculation continues to swirl.
With no known pre-existing medical conditions and a sudden collapse shortly after a meal, questions about potential foul play remain prominent in the minds of friends and supporters.
Meanwhile, the cause of Chahal’s death remains unknown while the police are continuing their investigation.