Archive · 24 Dec 2025
Indian-origin US mayor faces backlash over Sikh flag
Swarnjit Singh Khalsa, a 40-year-old from India, is the new mayor of Norwich, Connecticut.
He is the first Sikh to hold this position.
He has a Sikh flag in his office and plans to recognize 53 cultural days, including a Sikh holiday.
Some people online are upset, saying he should focus on American traditions instead.
They argue that this is not about unity but about dividing people.
Others say it's okay as long as all holidays are respected.
Singh has lived in Norwich for many years, worked in local roles, and owns a gas station.
He is married with two daughters.
Swarnjit Singh Khalsa, the newly elected Democratic mayor of Norwich, Connecticut, is facing backlash for displaying a Sikh flag in his office.
He plans to officially recognize 53 different cultural days in 2026, including Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti, a Sikh holiday.
Critics argue that this move goes against American civic traditions and prioritizes foreign religious holidays over American traditions.
Singh is the first Sikh to be elected mayor of Norwich and has lived in the city for many years, holding various local roles.
The backlash began after a video about “cultural days” in the city started circulating on social media.
- Who
- Swarnjit Singh Khalsa, the newly elected Democratic mayor of Norwich, Connecticut
- What
- Backlash over the display of a Sikh flag in his office and plans to recognize 53 cultural days, including Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti
- When
- The backlash began after a video about “cultural days” in the city started circulating on X
- Where
- Norwich, Connecticut, one of the oldest cities in the United States
- Why
- Critics argue that the move goes against American civic traditions and prioritizes foreign religious holidays over American traditions
- Name
- Swarnjit Singh Khalsa
- Age
- 40
- Origin
- Jalandhar, India
- Current Position
- Mayor of Norwich, Connecticut
- Education
- Master’s in Computer Engineering
- Previous Roles
- City Council, Board of Education, Norwich Community Development Corporation
- Family
- Wife (Guntas), Two Daughters