Another Sikh Canadian activist has received a “duty to warn” notification, raising doubts about the Carney administration’s assertions regarding addressing Indian government foreign interference and transnational repression concerns.
Inderjeet Singh Gosal disclosed that he was handed the letter on August 14 after being contacted by the RCMP in Caledon, Ontario. These letters are issued by law enforcement when there is credible information indicating a threat to an individual’s life without specifying the exact nature of the threat.
According to Gosal, the RCMP informed him of a threat to his life and requested an immediate meeting to provide the warning in writing. The letter, seen by CBC News, was signed by two RCMP members and Gosal as the “Intended Victim,” with recipients required to acknowledge receipt.
Despite an offer to enroll him in a witness protection program, Gosal declined, emphasizing his commitment to advocating for the Khalistan referendum over personal safety. Khalistan refers to the proposed independent Sikh homeland in India’s Punjab region, causing tensions with the Indian government due to non-binding referendums organized by Sikhs for Justice in various global locations.
Following the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun appointed Gosal to lead the Canadian referendum campaign. This latest warning marks Gosal’s sixth official police alert.
The issuance of such notices has become common since the Carney government initiated reconciliation efforts with the Narendra Modi government. Canada and India experienced strained relations after Nijjar’s killing and subsequent diplomatic downsizing due to allegations of Indian involvement in suppressing the Khalistani movement.
Despite seeking to move past the conflict and enhance economic ties, the government’s ongoing issuance of duty to warn letters implies lingering threats. UN rapporteurs have questioned Canada’s handling of threats against Sikh-origin citizens, notably Moninder Singh in British Columbia, raising concerns over the government’s efficacy in safeguarding vulnerable individuals.
While appreciative of the RCMP’s efforts to notify him of the threats, Gosal criticized the Carney government’s approach, expressing concerns over its bilateral engagement with India amid ongoing security risks. Gosal remains resolute in his activism, undeterred by potential threats to his safety, emphasizing the importance of upholding democratic processes against external suppression efforts.
India has denied involvement in violent activities on Canadian soil, including the Nijjar assassination, as Gosal remains steadfast in his commitment to the upcoming referendum in Edmonton, Alberta, despite the risks posed by external pressures.