Another Sikh Canadian activist has received a “duty to warn” notification, raising doubts about the Carney administration’s assertions of addressing Indian government foreign interference and transnational repression. Inderjeet Singh Gosal disclosed that he was contacted by the RCMP and handed the letter on Friday, August 14, in Caledon, Ontario.
These warnings are typically issued when law enforcement has credible information indicating a threat to an individual’s life, without specifying the exact nature of the danger. Gosal confirmed the receipt of the letter, signed by two RCMP members and himself as the “Intended Victim,” emphasizing that this marks his sixth official warning from the police.
Despite an offer to enroll him in a witness protection program, Gosal declined, expressing his commitment to advocating for the Khalistan referendum over personal safety. Khalistan represents the envisioned independent Sikh homeland in India’s Punjab region, with Sikhs for Justice conducting non-binding referendums globally since 2021, much to the ire of the Indian government.
Following the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June 2023, tensions between Canada and India escalated, leading to diplomatic downsizing and allegations of Indian involvement in Nijjar’s murder to suppress the Khalistani movement abroad. Despite efforts to normalize relations and focus on economic ties, duty to warn letters persist, signaling ongoing threats perceived by activists.
The Canadian government faces scrutiny from UN rapporteurs regarding its handling of threats to Sikh-Canadian citizens, particularly individuals engaged in separatist activities like Moninder Singh. While Canada assures its commitment to citizen protection, concerns persist among those feeling targeted by the Indian government, citing the recurrent issuance of warning letters as evidence of enduring threats.
Gosal commended the RCMP for fulfilling their duty to inform him about potential risks but criticized the Carney administration’s approach. He reiterated his resolve to continue organizing the upcoming referendum despite external pressures, highlighting the democratic process that the Indian government seeks to suppress through transnational means. India has consistently denied involvement in violent activities on Canadian soil.
The next referendum is scheduled for October 18 in Edmonton, Alberta, and Gosal remains resolute in his activism despite the challenges posed by external threats.
