Mark Baker vs. Sikh Dharma Dismissed

Source--Journal North, Albuquerque, December 9, 1989

Mark Baker, a former member of the Sikh Dharma (3HO led by Yogi Bhajan), filed a $10 million dollar lawsuit against the group and its leaders for defamation, interference with an employment relationship, invasion of privacy, intentional infliction of emotional distress and civil conspiracy.

Essentially, Baker alleged that the Sikh Dharma made a concerted effort to have him discharged from the New Mexico Police Academy--after he left the group with knowledge about supposed drug trafficking.

State District Judge Steve Hererra in Santa Fe dismissed the case--on or about December 9, 1989. Judge Hererra found that since Baker had listed members of 3HO as references for a job, this gave them the right, by law, to discuss him freely with potential employers. Mark Baker's attorney Herb Silverberg said they would appeal the judge's decision.

One of the defendants Guru Jot Singh Khalsa, a high leader within 3HO immediately below its founder Yogi Bhajan, was indicted by a federal grand jury in San Francisco in March 1988 on charges of attempting to smuggle 22.5 tons of Marijuana into the United States.

Another defendant, G.T.S. Khalsa a state assistant attorney general claimed--"This ruling means the New Mexico State Police can receive important information from citizens about potential offenders"

Note: Others might argue that the Baker case demonstrates the vindictiveness of the 3HO regarding those members who choose to leave.

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