Embracing “Tyar Bar Tyar” Through Decentralized Sikh NGOs
ਆਪਣਹਥੀਆਪਣਾਆਪੇਹੀਕਾਜੁਸਵਾਰੀਐ
With our own hands, let us set right our own affairs.
– Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji
A few weeks ago, I walked into a home defense course, curious about what I’d hear. After a few others arrived, we went through the usual class procedures—signing in, introductions, and and other standard formalities. From my spot near the rear, I couldn’t help but notice the crowd’s diversity: men and women, young (some as young as high school students) and old, from various occupations and all corners of the county. The instructor, a former police officer turned firearms trainer, explained that before we began, he wanted to show a video to underscore the importance of such courses. He dimmed the lights, checked the audio, and pressed play.
A phone rang…a long, unsettling ring. Then came a woman’s voice, frantic and cracking in a way that would make anyone’s hair stand on end. After a few seconds of listening, I was able to put two and two together: this was a 911 call that had gone to voicemail because no one answered. The heartbreaking truth? It was a real 911 call. A statistic then flashed on the screen: the number of unanswered 911 calls across the U.S. in 2024. I don’t recall the exact figure, but it was so shocking that I had to verify it when I got home. The video sparked a conversation. The instructor, echoing a sentiment I’ve heard from other former law enforcement officers, shared a truth many are reluctant to embrace: we can’t always rely on the system to save us. We must take responsibility for our own safety.
In the Sikh tradition, the concept of tyar bar tyar—being ever-ready—embodies the spirit of self-reliance, resilience, and community action. It is a call to stand prepared, both spiritually and practically, to face life’s challenges without depending on external systems. Historically, when faced with external threats, the Sikh Gurus never advocated pleading with the ruling administrations for protection. Instead, they empowered the community with the tools to address such threats themselves. One of the most notable examples is Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s gifting of the kirpan to members of the Khalsa as an instrument of this responsibility.
However, in modern times, many communities, including Sikhs, have become overly reliant on state mechanisms for solutions, exposing us to significant risks. The response of state governments—from the inadequate handling of the Punjab floods to failures in addressing transnational repression—underscores the dangers of over-reliance on centralized systems. This highlights the urgent need for decentralized Sikh NGOs, operating locally, nationally, and internationally, that embody the principle of tyar bar tyar. These organizations must be prepared to act swiftly and effectively in the face of crises, just as the Gurus intended—not by waiting for help, but by being the help.
Author’s Note: For those eager to get directly involved in the solution, we have an action item for you at the end of this article.
The Punjab Floods of 2025
The 2025 Punjab floods have devastated countless lives, submerging villages, destroying crops, and displacing families. Residents report little to no support from the Punjab state government or the Central Government, which, according to available data, may be primarily responsible for the flooding. In one instance, locals reported that the Indian Army was caught on camera staging a rescue. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has remained silent on the issue, despite Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann requesting additional funds to support farmers who lost crops due to the flooding. The only other sign of federal involvement has been the deployment of the National Disaster Response Force. This situation underscores a critical issue: over-dependence on such systems undermines community agency, leaving Sikhs vulnerable when disasters strike.
At-Risk Individuals and Duties to Warn
The resurgence of Sikh separatism has brought a renewed wave of threats against Sikh advocates and activists, both within India and abroad. Many prominent leaders in Sikh communities in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom have highlighted receiving what are known as “duties to warn” notices.1 Although the location and intensity of these threats may vary, the response from state governments is often consistent. Intelligence agencies visit the individual’s home, inform them of a risk to their life without disclosing the source of the threat, offer advice, and, unless the individual holds public office, provide no security. This leaves them vulnerable to the unidentified entity targeting them. Sikh individuals and groups have advocated for stronger protections for at-risk individuals, but so far, these efforts have been unsuccessful.
The Effectiveness of Sikh-Run Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
The Harvard Law School has this to say on NGOs:
“Nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) are typically mission-driven advocacy or service organizations in the nonprofit sector. There are large and small NGOs operating around the world and organized for just about every imaginable purpose. The term – coming from United Nations (UN) jargon to delineate between government bodies and private organizations – is relatively modern. However, international NGOs like the International Committee of the Red Cross and the Anti-Slavery International have been in existence for more than one hundred years.”
Decentralized and well-led Sikh NGOs empower communities worldwide to respond swiftly and effectively to natural disasters and external threats, fostering self-reliance while complementing state efforts when needed. This is evident in the ongoing recovery efforts in Punjab. Groups such as Khalsa Aid, United Sikhs, other Sikh organizations, and local gurdwaras have mobilized quickly, providing food, shelter, and medical aid. Their decentralized and collaborative approach, rooted in community knowledge and trust, has delivered where state efforts have faltered. These efforts embody the Sikh principles of daya (compassion) and ahankar (humility) needed to respond effectively to crises. They also reflect the concepts of seva (selfless service) and tyar bar tyar (ever-ready preparedness), demonstrating that preparedness thrives through community-driven action.
We believe that fostering the creation of and collaboration among grassroots organizations reduces dependence on on slow or overly bureaucratic systems and empowers communities to embody Sikh values of resilience and service.
Should we not hold the state accountable?
Absolutely, we should. When state departments or agencies fail to meet their own standards and duties, it’s critical to highlight these shortcomings. Sikh organizations in North America, such as the World Sikh Organization and the Sikh Coalition, are actively doing this. However, alongside holding the state accountable, we advocate for the development of grassroots Sikh NGOs that work in tandem with—and, when necessary, directly collaborate with—state authorities.
Two great examples of that from the Jewish community are Hatzolah, an international Jewish volunteer medical EMS organization, and Shomrim, a volunteer Jewish neighborhood civilian patrol with chapters across the US and Canada. Both maintain active, ongoing partnerships with local police and emergency agencies while prioritizing the physical well-being of their community members.2
Sikhs, particularly Amritdhari Sikhs, could replicate this model within their own communities. However, this requires a mindset shift, returning to the ethos of 1699 with the emergence of khande-di-pahul: “Spread love amongst yourselves, and carry weapons when arriving for Darshan.”3
What should I do if I want to get involved?
Choose one of three areas of defense that interests you: digital, physical, or environmental. Research the skills required in that area and work to develop them. These skills should then enable you to join a reputable Sikh organization that is actively addressing your area of interest.
If you can’t find an organization that aligns with your values or if no such organization exists, that’s okay. Connect with other Sikhs who share your vision and consider starting your own organization. If you live in Canada or the United States, we are happy to offer support for those wanting to start volunteer patrol (pehridar) teams.
Till next time, stay in Chardi Kala.
- “Document reveals police allegedly warned second Sikh activist about threat to his life”, CBC News
- Though they also will respond to those who call them who aren’t Jewish.
- Sri Guru Gobind Singh ji, in a Hukamnama dated Feburary 6 1702 to the congregation Prayaga Allahabad. https://manglacharan.com/Dasam+Guru+Granth+Sahib/Spread+Love