NEW YORK: A New York Federal judge has ordered the ruling Indian Congress party to appear at a pre-trial conference in the pending human rights violation law suit against it for organising genocidal violence against the Sikhs in 1984.

The pre-trial conference will be held in the New York Federal District Court on Jan 22.

The order of Judge Robert W. Sweet, of Southern District of New York directs the Counsel of “Sikhs For Justice” (SFJ) and Congress to appear for pre-trial hearing for the purpose of resolving any outstanding discovery or other issues, and setting a time for trial.

The Court order further states that “this conference may not be adjourned without direction from the court. Failure to appear at the conference may result in termination of this action.”

As directed by US Court to comply with the Supreme Court’s decision in Kiobel v. Royal Dutch Petroleum Co. “Sikhs for Justice” (SFJ) has filed an amended complaint in November, against the ruling party of India, Congress party for organising genocidal violence against Sikhs in 1984.