Another Sikh Canadian activist has recently been sent a “duty to warn” communication, raising doubts about the Carney administration’s assertions of having addressed Indian government foreign interference and transnational repression concerns. Inderjeet Singh Gosal disclosed receiving the letter on Friday, August 14, following a phone call from the RCMP in Caledon, Ontario.
These letters are typically issued by law enforcement when there is credible intelligence indicating a threat to an individual’s life, without specific details on the nature of the threat. Gosal confirmed the receipt of the warning, signed by two RCMP members and himself as the “Intended Victim,” during an interview with CBC News.
The activist mentioned that the RCMP reiterated a previous offer to include him in a witness protection program, despite his lack of involvement in criminal proceedings as a witness. Gosal declined the offer, stating his commitment to advocating for the Khalistan referendum even if it meant facing potential risks.
Khalistan refers to the proposed independent Sikh homeland in India’s Punjab region, supported by Sikh separatists. The ongoing non-binding referendums organized by Sikhs for Justice in various diaspora communities worldwide have provoked strong reactions from the Indian government.
Following the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June 2023, who was a key figure in the Canadian referendum campaign, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun appointed Gosal as Nijjar’s successor in leading the campaign in Canada. Gosal mentioned that this latest warning marks the sixth official police alert he has received.
The issuance of these warnings by Canadian authorities has increased since the Carney government initiated efforts to normalize relations with the Narendra Modi government. The strained relations between Canada and India post-Nijjar’s assassination led to diplomatic tensions and reciprocal expulsions of officials from both countries.
Despite the Carney government’s shift towards enhancing commercial ties with India, duty to warn letters persist. The recent letter to Gosal did not explicitly mention the Indian government but highlighted a threat against his life without providing specific details.
Canada has been questioned by UN rapporteurs regarding its handling of threats to Sikh Canadian citizens, particularly focusing on individuals like Moninder Singh in British Columbia, involved in Sikh separatist activities. The government has assured the rapporteurs of its commitment to protecting its citizens, but concerns remain among those targeted by the Indian government.
Gosal expressed gratitude to the RCMP for fulfilling their duty in notifying him about the threats but criticized the Carney government for its stance. He emphasized his determination to continue advocating for the Khalistan cause despite potential risks and external pressures.
India has consistently denied any involvement in violent acts on Canadian soil, including the Nijjar assassination. Gosal reaffirmed his dedication to organizing the upcoming referendum in Edmonton, Alberta, highlighting it as a democratic exercise that the Indian government seeks to suppress through transnational repression.
The activist remains resolute in his mission, undeterred by threats, and committed to advancing the Khalistan referendum despite external pressures.