NORWICH, Conn. (Diya TV) — Indian-origin Norwich Mayor Swarnjit Singh has renewed his support for the city’s immigrant community after reports of alleged U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity raised concerns among residents. He said the city will continue to follow Connecticut law while working with community leaders to ensure immigrants feel safe and supported.
Singh shared his message in a Facebook post after social media discussions about reported ICE activity around Norwich. Although he did not provide details about the reported incidents, he stressed that no one should fear going to work, sending children to school, or contacting the Norwich Police Department because of their immigration status.
The mayor said he has always supported Norwich’s immigrant community. He added that the city remains committed to protecting all residents within the limits of state law. His statement came as concerns about immigration enforcement continue to grow in many communities across the United States.
Singh also highlighted the role of the Connecticut Trust Act. The law limits cooperation between local police departments and federal immigration authorities in many situations. As a result, he said the Norwich Police Department does not stop people based on immigration status. It also does not assist or take part in ICE enforcement actions.
“My position is the same as Governor Lamont’s: ‘ICE, go home. You are not welcome here,'” Singh said in his public statement.
The mayor explained that he quickly reached out to community leaders, local organizations and state officials after learning about the reported ICE activity. He said those discussions focused on keeping residents informed while strengthening safety plans for immigrant neighborhoods.
Moreover, Singh said the city will continue those conversations in the weeks ahead. He believes regular communication will help build trust and allow local officials to better understand community concerns. At the same time, he said the city will identify ways to provide support while remaining within its legal responsibilities.
Singh also said he has stayed in close contact with Norwich Police Chief Pat Daley. In addition, he spoke with Deputy Chief Tom Lazzaro after the reported incident. According to the mayor, those discussions reinforced the police department’s commitment to the Connecticut Trust Act. They also aimed to make department policies clear to the public.
Furthermore, Singh said the city values open communication with organizations that serve immigrant families. He noted that these partnerships play an important role in helping residents feel secure. He added that city officials will continue listening to community members and responding to their concerns.
The mayor emphasized that Norwich will continue following Connecticut law while maintaining strong relationships with immigrant advocacy groups and local organizations. He said those efforts will help ensure that residents receive accurate information and feel supported during uncertain situations.
“I want our immigrant communities to know that they are part of Norwich, and we will continue to listen, communicate, and work together to make sure people feel safe and supported,” Singh said.
His statement comes as immigration enforcement remains a major issue across the country. Local governments often face questions about how they should respond to federal immigration actions while following state laws. In Connecticut, the Trust Act sets rules that define when local police may cooperate with federal immigration authorities.
Supporters of the law argue that it helps strengthen trust between immigrant communities and local law enforcement. They say residents are more likely to report crimes and cooperate with investigations when they do not fear immigration consequences. Critics, however, have argued that local governments should provide greater cooperation with federal immigration agencies.
