JALANDHAR: The North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) has expressed serious concern over the increasing involvement of Punjabi youth, particularly young Sikh boys, in criminal activities across North America. In light of recent incidents reported from multiple cities in the United States and Canada, NAPA is calling on community leaders, parents, and institutions to urgently address this alarming trend.
NAPA Executive Director Satnam Singh Chahal stated, "The Punjabi community must confront the uncomfortable truth that some of its youth are being lost to crime, and proactive steps must be taken. Schools, religious institutions, and community organisations need to come together to guide the youth, inspire them, and create avenues of success that do not involve shortcuts or crime."
Chahal further added, "Every other day, names of members of the Punjabi community are being highlighted in the media in connection with criminal activities, causing a bad name for the entire community. This growing negative image must be urgently addressed before it leads to deeper social and cultural consequences."
He emphasised that while the majority of Punjabi youth are law-abiding and hardworking, the actions of a few are casting a shadow on the entire community.