Bhai Paramjit Singh Pamma to Return to UK From Portugal

LONDON, UK—Sikh organizations across the globe have welcomed the release of Bhai Paramjit Singh Pamma, who was arrested in December 2015 in Portugal by the Interpol. Francisca Van Dunem, the Minister of Justice in Portugal rejected the extradition request on the basis that Bhai Paramjit Singh had been granted asylum in the UK. Following rejection of the case, Bhai Paramjit Singh Pamma is expected to return to UK soon.“This decision is based on the fact that the Indian national qualification for refugee status given by the British authorities in September 2000, when he was granted asylum in that country and issued a valid travel document until April 24, 2023, which enables the move by several EU countries, including Portugal, “the Justice Ministry said in a statement,” a statement issued by the Ministry of Justice, Portugal, stated.Several Sikh organizations led by the Sikhs for Justice and the Sikh Federation (UK) campaigned for Bhai Paramjit Singh Pamma. The Sikh Organization for Prisoner Welfare also ran a successful campaign to fundraiser for the legal expenses. Several UK MPs, particularly, John Spellar also played a prominent role. It is also important to mention the role played by Kesri Lehar (UK) sevadars, who led peaceful protests despite harsh weather conditions. Kesri Lehar activists were able to build pressure due to the protests, which eventually led to a meeting with the Portuguese Ambassador in UK, which was the turning point in this campaign.