BRAMPTON, ONTARIO – The World Sikh Organization of Canada (WSO) strongly condemned the violence perpetrated by pro-India mobs in Brampton on November 4th.  WSO extend ed their gratitude to the Peel Regional Police for their swift actions, which prevented the mobs from reaching and attacking local gurdwaras.

Last night, several hundred pro-India protesters gathered on the grounds of the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton. Individuals within the crowd were recorded giving hateful speeches, inciting Indians to attack Sikh religious sites. The demonstrators later moved onto the streets, obstructing traffic and attempting to march toward nearby gurdwaras. Peel Regional Police effectively intervened, blocking the march to prevent an escalation. Following these instigations, protesters vandalized Sikh-owned vehicles and hurled profanities at Peel Police officers.

In response, members of the Sikh community convened at local gurdwaras, with support from the police, to protect their congregations and buildings. Later that evening, Peel Police declared the protest an unlawful assembly and ordered the pro-India crowd to disperse or face arrests after weapons were spotted amongst the demonstrators.

This violence follows an earlier incident on Sunday, where Sikh protesters at the Hindu Sabha Mandir protesting against a consular event hosted by the Consul General of India were attacked, resulting in a violent altercation. Later that same day, hate speeches were given outside the Hindu Sabha Mandir by pro-India protestors calling for violence against Sikhs. Sri Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara in Malton was subsequently swarmed that night but the attack was repelled by Peel Police.

On October 15, the RCMP reported evidence indicating that “Indian diplomats and consular officials based in Canada leveraged their official positions to engage in clandestine activities, such as collecting information for the Government of India, either directly or through proxies or coerced individuals.”

There are growing concerns that these events may be part of a larger effort to sow division and incite unrest in Canada. The RCMP has raised alarms about India’s efforts to create a “perception of an unsafe environment” within Canada, a tactic seemingly mirrored in recent disinformation spread by Indian media. Indian media have spread disinformation that the Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was involved in orchestrating the protest against Indian diplomats on Sunday and police attacking the Hindu community.

Dr. Jaspreet Kaur, WSO Ontario President, stated,

“What occurred last night was deeply troubling and rooted in deliberate incitement. Multiple speeches delivered outside the Hindu Sabha Mandir on Sunday night incited violence against Sikhs. The attempted swarming of Sri Guru Singh Sabha Malton by several hundred pro-India aggressors on Sunday night appears to have been just the beginning. Were it not for Peel Police’s intervention, further attacks on gurdwaras would likely have taken place last night.

We urge law enforcement to ensure that those involved in violence or incitement are arrested and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. We encourage the Sikh community to remain vigilant, as reports indicate the potential for additional pro-India protests tonight. The violence and unrest witnessed in Brampton over the past two days are unacceptable. We are seeing an alarming rise in disinformation from India, trying to provoke further violence – this cannot be allowed to happen. Cooler heads must prevail, and we call for peace and mutual respect.”

The World Sikh Organization of Canada (WSO) is a non-profit organization with a mandate to promote and protect the interests of Canadian Sikhs, as well as to promote and advocate for the protection of human rights of all individuals. 

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman David G. Valadao (CA-22), co-chair of the Sikh American Congressional Caucus, introduced a resolution to formally recognize and commemorate the Sikh Genocide of 1984. California is home to the largest Sikh population in the U.S., with the majority residing in the Central Valley.

“Sadly, many Sikhs have been targeted for their religious beliefs throughout history, including during the 1984 genocide,” said Congressman Valadao. “The Central Valley is home to a vibrant Sikh community and I’m proud to stand with them in demanding recognition and accountability for this horrific event in their history. This resolution is a small but important step to commemorate this tragedy and honor the innocent victims who lost their lives while practicing their faith.”

“As we mark the 40th anniversary of the Sikh Genocide, we remember a dark chapter in history that inflicted pain on Sikh families and communities. This is not just a distant tragedy—it hits home for us here in the San Joaquin Valley, where so many of our Sikh neighbors have shared their stories of loss, survival, and resilience. This resolution is more than a symbol — it’s a time to recognize this horrific time that our Sikh community experienced,” said Congressman Costa.

Reps. Valadao and Costa were joined in introduction by Reps. Josh Harder (CA-09), Vince Fong (CA-20), and John Duarte (CA-13).

The resolution is supported by American Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, American Sikh Caucus Committee, Ensaaf, Jakara Movement, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF), Sikh Coalition, Sikh Coordination Committee East Coast (SCCEC), and the United Sikhs.

“This resolution marks a pivotal moment in our ongoing quest for justice and truth. The American Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, representing Sikh religious institutions across the nation, has long advocated for the recognition of the atrocities committed during the 1984 Sikh Genocide. We thank Congressman Valadao for his courageous leadership and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that the stories of our martyrs are preserved, and that justice is pursued relentlessly,” said Gudev Singh, Acting President, American Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (AGPC).

“This resolution is a turning point in our community’s decades-long pursuit of justice and recognition. For too long, the horrors of 1984 have been hidden from the global stage. Today, we honor the memory of those who suffered and ensure their voices will never be silenced. We extend our deepest gratitude to Congressman David Valadao for his leadership of the American Sikh Congressional Caucus, and in championing this cause, marking a momentous step toward accountability and healing for Sikh Americans and Sikhs worldwide,” said Dr. Pritpal Singh, Founder, American Sikh Caucus Committee.

“This resolution marks a crucial victory in the battle for truth and justice for the victims of the 1984 Sikh Genocide. It stands as a testament to the resilience of our community, which has sought justice for decades. While we still have a long road ahead in terms of accountability, this first step of recognition in the U.S. House of Representatives gives us hope that justice one day will prevail,” said Sukhman Dhami, Co-Director, Ensaaf

“The introduction of this resolution is not just about acknowledging the past but ensuring that future generations understand the truth about the 1984 Sikh Genocide. For Sikh youth and activists, this is more than a political milestone—it’s a validation of the pain our elders endured and a commitment to never allow history to forget. The Jakara Movement looks forward to working alongside Congressman Valadao to continue shining a light on this dark chapter and to ensure that justice for the victims remains a priority for all,” said Naindeep Singh, Executive Director, Jakara Movement.

“This resolution is a historic acknowledgment of the deep scars the Sikh genocide of 1984 has left on our community. It not only honors the memory of those we lost but also empowers Sikh Americans and allies who have been fighting for decades to ensure that these atrocities are not forgotten. We are especially grateful to Congressman David Valadao for his unwavering support and for bringing this issue to the forefront of American consciousness. Today, we see a step toward justice and the validation of our truth,” said Kiran Kaur Gill, Executive Director, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF)

“This is the first time a federal resolution has been introduced to recognize the 1984 Sikh Genocide, and it sends a powerful message: the world is watching, and the atrocities committed against Sikhs will not go unnoticed. We are deeply thankful to Congressman David Valadao for his leadership in this effort, and we look forward to building a broad coalition of support to ensure its ultimate passage. Today’s recognition fuels our resolve to continue advocating for justice and accountability,” said Harman Singh, Executive Director, Sikh Coalition.

“The introduction of this resolution is a significant step forward for Sikhs worldwide, especially for those of us who have been tirelessly advocating for the truth to be recognized. The Sikh Coordination Committee East Coast stands united with our brothers and sisters in the continued pursuit of justice for the victims of 1984. This resolution acknowledges not only our pain but our perseverance, and we are grateful to Congressman Valadao for standing with us in this cause,” said Himmat Singh, Sikh Coordination Committee East Coast (SCCEC).

“As a global humanitarian organization, United Sikhs has long championed the cause of justice and human rights for the Sikh community. The introduction of this resolution in the U.S. Congress is a watershed moment for our community’s struggle for truth and justice. It is an acknowledgment that the international community is listening, and it reinforces our collective resolve to ensure that the horrors of 1984 are neither ignored nor repeated. We extend our deepest gratitude to Congressman Valadao for his leadership and solidarity,” said Hardayal Singh, United Sikhs.

Background:

In June 1984, Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi ordered a military assault on Sri Darbar Sahib, a sacred place of worship more commonly known as The Golden Temple. During Operation Blue Star, the Indian Army used heavy artillery and tanks to lay siege on The Golden Temple complex, murdering thousands of civilians as an attempt to suppress Sikh religious rights and freedoms. This tragedy is considered by many as the beginning of the Sikh Genocide.

Following the death of Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on October 31, 1984, the Indian government launched a multi-day campaign of state-sponsored violence and repression against Sikhs that included disappearances, targeted killings, and coordinated mass violence. Political unrest in India throughout 1984 resulted in the loss of thousands of Sikh lives. Today, transnational repression is still a widespread issue impacting the Sikh community.

Full text of resolution:

rsOTTAWA, CANADA – The stunning election victory of Bhai Amritpal Singh of the Waris Punjab De (WPD) organization has shattered the Indian narrative that support for Khalistan does not exist in Punjab.

Bhai Amritpal Singh has been elected as an independent MP from the Khadoor Sahib constituency, despite contesting the election from Dibrugarh Jail in Assam, where he is currently detained under the National Security Act. Bhai Amritpal Singh won the election with 404,430 votes—the largest margin of any candidate in Punjab, beating his closest rival by 197,120 votes.

Bhai Amritpal Singh was arrested by Indian police in April 2023 after a month-long security crackdown in Punjab, which included the suspension of internet services across the state and the detention of hundreds of Sikh youth. He came to prominence in Punjab with his successful campaign to inspire Punjabi youth to reject drugs and embrace the Sikh faith. Amritpal Singh has also been open and unapologetic in his support for Khalistan, a sovereign Sikh state, as well as highlighting discrimination against Sikhs in India.

Another independent candidate to win in Punjab was Sarabjeet Singh Khalsa, who secured 298,062 votes in the Faridkot constituency. He also contested the elections on a platform of Sikh sovereignty and human rights.

The ruling BJP did not win a single seat in Punjab and has lost its majority in the Lok Sabha.

The Indian election results also have an impact in Canada in the aftermath of the assassination of Bhai Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June 2023. In September 2023, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau rose in the House of Commons to accuse India of being behind the assassination plot. During the election campaign, Modi and his Defence Minister Rajnath Singh publicly boasted that India is assassinating its opponents “in their homes,” even by crossing borders.

WSO President Danish Singh said:

“Today’s landslide election victory for Bhai Amritpal Singh has shattered the Indian narrative that Khalistan has no support within Punjab. Bhai Amritpal Singh secured the largest victory amongst all the seats in Punjab despite being detained in an Assam jail, three thousand kilometers away and not being able to campaign. These results make it clear that Khalistan has strong grassroots support in Punjab, despite people’s fear of Indian retribution for openly expressing their support. Given that India has shown no qualms in murdering Sikh activists, even in foreign countries, we request that Canada and other Western democratic countries call on India to ensure that Bhai Amritpal Singh is immediately released and no harm comes to him.”

The World Sikh Organization of Canada (WSO) is a non-profit organization with a mandate to promote and protect the interests of Canadian Sikhs, as well as to promote and advocate for the protection of human rights of all individuals. 

Editor’s Note: Updated/corrected vote counts based on results.eci.gov.in – as of 6/5/2024.

OTTAWA, CANADA – The World Sikh Organization of Canada (WSO) reviewed the findings of Commissioner Marie-Josee Hogue in the Public Inquiry into Foreign Interference’s Initial Report released today, and welcomed the Report’s conclusion that India engages in foreign interference activities in Canada, targeting the Sikh community and that “India directed foreign interference activities related to the 2019 and 2021 general elections.”

The WSO is a member of the “Sikh Coalition” which was granted party standing in the Foreign Interference Commission, along with the BC Gurdwaras Council and the Ontario Gurdwaras Committee.

The report states,  “Indian officials, including Canadian-based proxies, engage in a range of activities that seek to influence Canadian communities and politicians. These activities include foreign interference, which aims to align Canada’s position with India’s interest on key issues, particularly with respect to how the Indian government perceives Canada-based supporters of an independent Sikh homeland (Khalistan)”

Other key findings in the Report with respect to India include:

India, without distinction, views all pro-Khalistan political advocacy as a seditious threat.
Targets of Indian foreign interference are often members of the Indo-Canadian communities, but prominent non-Indo-Canadians are also subject to India’s foreign influence activities.

“Indian officials in Canada have increasingly relied on Canadian and Canadian-based proxies and the contacts in their networks to conduct foreign interference. This obfuscates any explicit link between India and the foreign interference activities. Proxies liaise and work with Indian intelligence officials in India and in Canada, taking both explicit and implicit direction from them.”

With respect to the 2019 and 2021 Canadian Federal elections, the Report finds that “Indian proxy agents may have attempted to interfere in democratic processes, reportedly including through the clandestine provision of illicit financial support to various Canadian politicians as a means of attempting to secure the election of pro-Indian candidates or gaining influence over candidates who take office. In some instances, the candidates may never know their campaigns received illicit funds”

In the 2021 elections “Indian officials were observed expressing interest in individual electoral contests and likely hoped pro-Indian candidates would prevail, or, at least, that perceived anti-Indian candidates would not be (re-)elected”

WSO President Danish Singh said today, “We welcome Justice Hogue’s findings that India is engaging in foreign interference activities in Canada targeting the Sikh community but also engaged in interference activities in the 2019 and 2021 Canadian Federal Elections. India’s interference in Canada has been a lived reality for the Sikh community for the past four decades but has largely gone without notice in the mainstream.

Foreign interference in Canada from India poses a serious threat to our democratic institutions and to the rights guaranteed to all Canadians. For Sikhs, the impact of Indian foreign interference extends beyond just elections and has resulted in actual physical harm. The assassination of Bhai Hardeep Singh Nijjar underscores the consequences faced by those who dare to exercise their freedom of expression in defiance of intimidation by India.

There have been long-standing efforts to minimize and conceal India’s interference activities in Canada. We are hopeful that today’s Report will lead to greater transparency and decisive action to check India’s hostile activities targeting Canada and the Sikh community.”

The WSO is a non-profit national organization with a mandate to promote and protect the interests of Canadian Sikhs as well as to promote and advocate for the protection of human rights of all individuals, irrespective or race, gender, ethnicity, religion or nationality.

OTTAWA, CANADA – In a released press statement, The World Sikh Organization of Canada welcomed reports that police have arrested members of an alleged hit squad that assassinated Bhai Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, B.C. last June. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had informed the House of Commons on September 18, 2023 of “credible allegations” linking the Government of India to the murder.

According to reports, the individuals arrested today belong to the “Bishnoi gang” based out of India. The gang’s leader, Lawrence Bishnoi, has been incarcerated in Indian prisons since 2014. He has recently appeared on Indian news media and declaring himself an Indian nationalist and vowing opposition to those who support Khalistan. The Bishnoi gang has been implicated in an expansive extortion network targeting businesses in Canada in at least six different cities. Lawrence Bishnoi also took responsibility for the murder of Punjabi rapper Sidhu Moosewala in May 2022. Moosewala, a former Brampton resident, had begun to speak publicly about Khalistan and discrimination faced by Sikhs in India.

Intelligence sources have told CBC News that India has been using criminal gangs to conduct its activities in Canada.

In the Foreign Interference Commission’s report released today, Commissioner Justice Marie-Josee Hogue also found that “Indian officials in Canada have increasingly relied on Canadian and Canadian-based proxies and the contacts in their networks to conduct foreign interference. This obfuscates any explicit link between India and the foreign interference activities. Proxies liaise and work with Indian intelligence officials in India and in Canada, taking both explicit and implicit direction from them.”

WSO President Danish Singh said today,  “While we welcome arrests in the assassination of Bhai Hardeep Singh Nijjar, we believe these arrests raise disturbing questions about the nexus between the Government of India and criminal gangs. How is an Indian criminal who has been in Indian prison since 2014 able to operate a gang targeting Sikhs in Canada for murder and extortion, on this scale?

Today’s report by the Foreign Interference Commission has confirmed that India uses proxies in Canada who work with Indian intelligence officials in India and Canada. While the arrest of the hit squad is important, what’s even more important is identifying and bringing to justice those who directed these operations. It would seem that the trail leads to India’s embassies and consulates in Canada and directly to the Government of India.”

The WSO is a non-profit national organization with a mandate to promote and protect the interests of Canadian Sikhs as well as to promote and advocate for the protection of human rights of all individuals, irrespective or race, gender, ethnicity, religion or nationality.

OTTAWA, CANADA – The World Sikh Organization of Canada (WSO), in an issued press statement, condemned the mistreatment and unjust detention of Sikh activists in Dibrugarh Jail, Assam.

The ten Sikh detainees, including Bhai Amritpal Singh of the Waris Punjab De (WPD) organization, have endured nearly a year of detention without charges under India’s draconian National Security Act (NSA). The NSA, a colonial-era law, allows Indian authorities to indefinitely detain individuals without charges and transport them to any state in India for imprisonment. The Sikh detainees have now initiated a hunger strike to protest their mistreatment.

Recently, alarming revelations have come to light regarding the conditions within Dibrugarh Jail. The detainees discovered hidden cameras covertly installed in their cells and washrooms. This unacceptable invasion of privacy raises grave concerns about the violation of basic human rights and dignity.

In response to the discovery of the hidden cameras, Bhai Amritpal Singh, the leader of the WPD, has been falsely accused by the jail management of possessing contraband items, including two cell phones, a USB stick, and a “smartwatch.” Bhai Amritpal Singh denies these allegations, asserting that the items were planted in his cell to fabricate incriminating evidence against him.

In a recorded statement released today, Bhai Amritpal Singh revealed that he and his fellow Sikh detainees initiated a hunger strike on February 16th, demanding to be transferred to a prison in Punjab. Bhai Amritpal Singh expressed concerns that the detainees’ food may also be deliberately adulterated and that several of the Sikh detainees are facing health issues.

Bhai Amritpal Singh and the other detainees have not been accused of any serious crime. Their detention appears to target the growing popularity of the WPD’s Khalsa Vahir movement, which was inspiring Punjab’s youth to give up drugs and return to Sikhi.

WSO President, Danish Singh, said today,

“The WSO condemns the appalling treatment of Sikh detainees in Dibrugarh Jail. Bhai Amritpal Singh and the other Sikhs have been arbitrarily detained for almost a year under India’s draconian NSA, thousands of kilometres away from their homes. The discovery of hidden cameras in the detainees’ washrooms and cells is a shocking and unacceptable violation of privacy, reflecting the perverse intentions of the jail authorities.

The Sikh detainees in Dibrugarh are being held without charges for simply advocating for Sikh issues. Their detention is reflective of the Government of India’s discriminatory treatment towards Sikhs and other marginalized communities.

We call for the immediate release of these Sikh detainees. The Government of India must be held accountable and uphold its obligations under international law.”

The World Sikh Organization of Canada (WSO) is a non-profit organization with a mandate to promote and protect the interests of Canadian Sikhs, as well as to promote and advocate for the protection of human rights of all individuals. 

USCIRF Deeply Concerned by India’s Transnational Repression Against Religious Minorities. Urges State Department to Make CPC Designation

WASHIGNTON, DC – The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) in a press release stated that it was “alarmed by India’s increased transnational targeting of religious minorities and those advocating on their behalf. Recent efforts by the Indian government to silence activists, journalists, and lawyers abroad pose a serious threat to religious freedom. Due to India’s systematic, ongoing, and egregious violations of freedom of religion or belief, USCIRF implores the U.S. Department of State to designate India a Country of Particular Concern (CPC).”

“The Indian government’s alleged involvement in the killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada and the plot to kill Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in the United States are deeply troubling, and represent a severe escalation of India’s efforts to silence religious minorities and human rights defenders both within its country and abroad,” said USCIRF Commissioner Stephen Schneck.

“We call on the Biden administration to acknowledge the Indian government’s perpetration of particularly severe religious freedom violations and designate it as a country of particular concern (CPC).”

Transnational repression occurs when states use intimidation, harassment, or violence against those living outside their borders. Transnational repression campaigns often target political and human rights activists, journalists, and members of religious and ethnic minority groups. In extreme cases, tactics include detention, reprisals against family members, kidnapping, or, as illustrated by India, assassinations. In November 2023, the U.S. Department of Justice published an indictment alleging the Indian government’s attempt to assassinate a Sikh activist was intended to prompt a series of additional killings in the United States and Canada.

In addition, Indian authorities have used spyware and online harassment campaigns to target and intimidate journalists and activists abroad advocating on behalf of religious minorities. Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s State Visit to the United States in June, comments from the head of India’s Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) information and technology department, Amit Malviya, prompted an online campaign against U.S. Wall Street Journal journalist Sabrina Siddiqui for posing a question about religious freedom conditions in India.

“Within its own borders, Indian authorities have repeatedly used draconian legislation like the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act and anti-conversion laws to systematically crack down on religious minorities, journalists, and activists,” USCIRF Commissioner David Curry. “Extending this repression to target religious minorities from India living abroad, including intimidation tactics against journalists, is especially dangerous and cannot be ignored. We urge the U.S. government to continue its active engagement with senior Indian officials and international partners to ensure religious minorities can live and express themselves without fear of reprisal, whether in India or elsewhere.”

USCIRF has recommended each year since 2020 that the U.S. Department of State designate India as a CPC, most recently in its 2023 Annual Report. USCIRF also published an issue update on India’s state-level anti-conversion laws, providing further context on India’s use of these laws to target religious minorities. In September 2023, USCIRF held a hearing on religious freedom conditions in India and how the U.S. government can work with the Indian government to address violations.

The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) is an independent, bipartisan federal government entity established by the U.S. Congress to monitor, analyze and report on religious freedom abroad. USCIRF makes foreign policy recommendations to the President, the Secretary of State and Congress intended to deter religious persecution and promote freedom of religion or belief.

“Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) is using “Ballot” to liberate Punjab while India is using “Bullets” to stop the ongoing Khalistan Referendum – the motive behind India’s efforts to kill me.” – Gurpatwant Singh Pannu

WASHINGTON, DC (KP) – The Financial Times reported that American authorities foiled a sinister plot by the right-wing Hindu led Indian Government to assassinate an American Sikh lawyer and legal advisor of the Sikhs for Justice, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.

According to the report the US federal prosecutors have filed a “sealed” indictment against at least one suspect at a New York District Court in connection to the plot, another suspect has reportedly absconded from the US – possibly making his way back to India.

In reaction, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the target of the assassination plot stated that Violence begets violence and questioned of Modi Government ready to face consequences for the attempt on his life.

The Sikhs for Justice legal advisor further stated on his X (Twitter.com) post:

“The foiled attempt on my life on American soil by the Indian agents is transnational terrorism which is a threat to the US sovereignty, freedom of speech and democracy, so I will let the U.S. government respond to this threat.”

“Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) is using “Ballot” to liberate Punjab while India is using “Bullets” to stop the ongoing Khalistan Referendum – the motive behind India’s efforts to kill me.”

“India is using mercenaries to kill Pro Khalistan Sikhs hence I dare Modi Government to declare Open Armed Conflict with Punjab and history is a witness that the Sikh sovereigntists will defend with equal force and continue to campaign for liberation of Punjab from the Indian occupation.”

“At this time my focus is not threats to my life but to organize American Phase of Khalistan Referendum scheduled to start from San Francisco CA on January 28, 2024, which Indian government is attempting to block.”

The Financial Times reports comes two months after the Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated in an address to the Canadian Parliament that there were credible allegations linking Indian agents to the murder another Sikh activist, Bhai Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June. Nijjar was gunned down in a Sikh Gurdwara complex parking lot in Surrey, BC by unknown assailants, who were reportedly on hire by the Indian authorities.

At that time, India vehemently rejected Canada’s accusations and expelled several members of the Canadian embassy staff. Meanwhile the Indian lap-dog media, known as “Godi media,” openly ridiculed Trudeau’s assertions and egged the Indian to “attack” Canada with “missiles and bombs” for even bringing up the issue of the assassination of the Canadian Sikh activist.

Ironically, both the Indian Government and the “godi” lap-dog media are totally silent after the assertions by the United States authorities have surfaced after the Financial Times report.

It should be noted that both Pannun and Nijjar spearheaded the Sikhs For Justice referendum on the creation of an independent Sikh state in which over 300,000 in support ballots were registered by the Canadian Sikh diaspora in 2023.

In related news the Intercept News published report Secret Intelligence Documents Show Global Reach of India’s Death Squads states that “The Indian Government’s intelligence agency, the Research and Analysis Wing, or RAW, has been planning assassinations targeting Sikh and Kashmiri activists living in foreign countries.”

By: Pippal Singh Randhawa
Source: The Amritsar Talks

Hardeep Singh Nijjer, a Canadian citizen, who was shot dead in June 2023 at the Sikh Gurdwara of Vancouver where he was president. He was a Sikh separatist and activist. After months of his death, Canada has openly accused India of orchestrating his assassination. However, both Indian and Western media have primarily marginalised the context and facts surrounding the escalation between Canada and India.

The dossier accusing Hardeep Singh Nijjar of the Shingar Cinema bomb blast was given to the Canadian Prime Minister in 2018 by then chief minister of Punjab, Capt. Amrinder Singh. The case has been prominently featured in Indian media reports. However, what has been conveniently omitted is that the Indian court eventually acquitted all the individuals arrested and prosecuted for the bomb blast.

The Indian Express – September 21, 2023

Notably, the court acquitted all those who were blamed for the physical execution of the bomb blast. This raises questions about the credibility of the government’s accusations against Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Furthermore, it is essential to mention that the Shingar bomb blast occurred in 2007, while Nijjar had left India a decade earlier in 1997. This time gap casts doubt on his alleged involvement in the incident.

The Indian and Western media’s failure to highlight these crucial facts contributes to a distorted narrative, potentially influencing public opinion and diplomatic relations between Canada and India. Considering all the relevant information and weighing it objectively before drawing conclusions or making accusations is imperative.

The Tribune December – 17, 2014

In addition to Hardeep Singh Nijjar, another individual named Gurjit Singh Cheema was also included in the dossier handed over to the Canadian Prime Minister. Cheema, a Canadian citizen, was booked under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) in 2017 by the Indian government. However, it is important to note that the case against him was not related to any acts of violence but rather the alleged smuggling of weapons and explosives.

Interestingly, all the individuals accused of physically executing the smuggling were acquitted of the charges under the terror law. This raises doubts about the legitimacy of the accusations made against Gurjit Singh Cheema. The court found the charges under the UAPA to be unsubstantiated, suggesting that the allegations may have been baseless.

The Indian Express – November 16, 2020

It is also worth noting that Punjab has witnessed several major terror attacks in the last two decades, including the Shingar cinema bomb blast in 2007, the Pathankot terror attack in 2015, the Dinanagar terror attack in 2016, and the Maur bomb blast attack in 2017. Initially, Khalistani groups were accused of being responsible for these attacks. However, it is crucial to mention that none of these attacks have been attributed to Khalistan.

The Times of India – Feb 2, 2017

In the case of the Shingar cinema bomb blast, allegations against all the accused were found false. It is important to note that both the Dinanagar and Pathankot attacks were associated with militancy in Kashmir and had no connection to the Khalistan movement.

Indian Defence Review – July 29, 2015

The Hindu – January 4, 2016

One shocking incident was the Maur bomb blast, which occurred just before the Punjab assembly elections in 2017. The timing of the explosion was crucial, as it resulted in the death of seven people and created a narrative against the newly formed Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for allegedly harbouring Khalistanis.

Hindustan Times – Feb 3, 2017

However, it was later revealed that an influential sect leader, who had close ties with parties fearing election defeat to the AAP in Punjab, was actually behind the attack. Astonishingly, this sect leader, who has been convicted of rape and murder, has not been questioned for his role in the bombing, which tragically claimed the lives of five children.

The Indian Express – July 13, 2021

The lack of justice in the Maur bomb blast case is alarming. All political parties showed little interest in pursuing the investigation once the Khalistani angle was ruled out. It is disconcerting that despite his criminal convictions, the sect leader continues to receive favours from respective governments.

The Times of India – January 23, 2023

The assertion that there is hardly any violence in the name of Khalistan in India or Punjab holds considerable validity. The instances of violence attributed to Khalistan separatists are relatively zero, and the term Sikh separatist is often used to label Sikh members of violent criminal gangs. On the other hand, Hindu members of these same gangs are typically regarded as nationalists, highlighting a bias in how these individuals are categorised.

The Quint – March 24, 2023

Interestingly, there have been instances where the violent activities of non-Sikh members are unjustly attributed to Khalistan separatists. This pattern becomes evident when minor crimes, with no physical harm caused, are linked to Khalistanis. In some cases, minor blasts are used to blame Khalistanis for violence falsely. It is crucial to note that Hindu individuals have also been involved in these crimes.

Hindustan Times – January 14, 2022

However, it is important to mention that none of these cases have been proven in court so far. This raises questions about the credibility of the accusations made against Sikh individuals and the narratives that are constructed around them.

Small crimes being attributed to Khalistanis have a pattern in which no physical harm is caused. Minor blasts are used to blame Khalistanis for violence. Hindu accused are also involved in these crimes. None of such cases has been proved in court so far.

The Indian Express – December 11, 2022

In the recent string of 4 attacks on Punjab police stations, the common thread that has been identified is the involvement of Sikhs for Justice (SFJ). However, the organisation is based in the US, not Canada, as often mentioned. However, it is worth noting that SFJ has never claimed responsibility for any of these attacks.

The Indian Express – May 11, 2022

There have been allegations made by Indian diplomatic channels that Khalistanis are responsible for defacing Hindu temples in Australia and Canada. However, no evidence linking Khalistani involvement to any of these attacks has been found thus far. In fact, an Australian police investigation discovered that members of some temples might have defaced their own temple to disrupt an SFJ rally.

The Times of India – September 18, 2023

It is important to remember that these assertions are predominantly reported by the Indian media, which is often seen as a mouthpiece for the government. Independent reporting can shed new light on the context, reveal additional facts, and expose potential falsehoods surrounding these incidents.

World Sikh Organization Condemns India’s Involvement in the Killing of Canadian Sikhs on Canadian Soil

OTTAWA, CANADA – The Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada confirmed what Canadian Sikhs have known for months- that credible evidence exists to substantiate that agents of the Government of India were involved in the targeted killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil.

Prime Minister Trudeau told the House of Commons this afternoon that Canadian security agencies have spent the last several weeks “actively pursuing credible allegations” that agents of the government of India were responsible for Nijjar’s death.

Trudeau says he raised the issue directly with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi earlier this month.

Hardeep Singh Nijjar was assassinated in a targeted shooting on June 18th, 2023 in the parking lot of Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara in Surrey, BC. Nijjar served as the gurdwara’s president and was an outspoken supporter of Khalistan. He often led peaceful protests against the violation of human rights actively taking place in India and in support of Khalistan.

Nijjar had publicly spoken of the threat to his life for months and said that he was targeted by Indian intelligence agencies. The Canadian Security and Intelligence Service (CSIS) and local law enforcement were aware of the threat to Nijjar, as well as other Sikh activists in Canada, and had been alerted of this danger from multiple sources.

Nijjar was one of several prominent Sikh leaders to have died in targeted killings in recent months including in Pakistan and the United Kingdom. Several other Canadian Sikhs are also understood to be under threat by India and on so-called ‘hit lists’.

For years, the World Sikh Organization (WSO) and Canadian Sikhs have alerted the Government of Canada about Indian interference in Canada.

The WSO called for the following measures:

Canada must immediately identify and bring to justice those individuals who were involved in the targeted killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Immediate protection for Sikhs in Canada who face a threat from India and its agents.
Canada must conduct a thorough and continuous review of all Indian diplomats and consular officials in Canada and immediately remove those found to have been involved in interference, surveillance and espionage in Canada.

Canada must ensure heightened measures are introduced so that Indian nationals involved in that country’s security and intelligence forces and in human rights abuses are not permitted to enter Canada.

Canada must immediately stop all intelligence sharing with India and withdraw from the Framework for Cooperation on Countering Terrorism and Violent Extremism with India.
The Public Inquiry into Foreign Interference in Federal Electoral Processes and Democratic Institutions must examine India’s role in foreign interference here in Canada.

World Sikh Organization President Tejinder Singh Sidhu said today,

“The significance of today’s announcement cannot be understated for Sikhs. Today, the Prime Minister of Canada has publicly said what Sikhs in Canada have known for decades- India actively targets Sikhs in Canada. It should now be clear to all Canadians that the Government of India is a terrorist state that has brazenly engaged in extrajudicial killings not only on its own soil, but also on Canadian soil.

Today’s announcement must be followed by concrete action. India cannot be allowed to disregard the rule of law and the sovereignty of foreign states. The killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar and other Sikh activists were terrorist acts that must be condemned by the international community. Those responsible for these killings must be immediately brought to justice. India should honour its international obligations and cooperate with the Government of Canada in investigating these matters.

There are other Sikhs in Canada who face an ongoing threat to their lives. Every possible measure must be taken to ensure their safety.

The Sikh community will not be intimidated or frightened by the actions of the Government of India. Sikhs will continue to fearlessly advocate for Khalistan and against Indian human rights abuses, as they have the right to do.”

The World Sikh Organization of Canada (WSO) is a non-profit organization with a mandate to promote and protect the interests of Canadian Sikhs, as well as to promote and advocate for the protection of human rights of all individuals.