Pro-Khalistan Sikhs protest on second anniversary of Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s death
Dozens of pro-Khalistan Sikh activists gathered outside the Indian consulate in Vancouver to commemorate the second anniversary of the tragic killing of B.C. gurdwara leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Nijjar, a prominent figure in the Khalistan movement advocating for an independent Sikh state in northern India, was fatally shot in the parking lot of Surrey’s Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara on June 18, 2023.
Moninder Singh, the spokesperson for the Sikh Federation (Canada), emphasized the impact of Nijjar’s death on the community over the past two years. He described it as a stark reminder of the presence of violence in Canada and the urgent need for solidarity among Sikhs in the face of such threats.
The protest also shed light on the ongoing legal proceedings related to Nijjar’s murder. Four Indian nationals – Karan Brar, Kamalpreet Singh, Karanpreet Singh, and Amandeep Singh – have been charged with murder and conspiracy to commit murder in connection with the case. The incident led to strained relations between Canada and India, with then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accusing the Indian government of involvement in Nijjar’s killing.
The issue of foreign interference, as highlighted by the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) in its annual report, remains a concern. The report indicated links between the Indian government and Nijjar’s murder, signaling a significant escalation in India’s efforts to suppress the Khalistan movement. Singh stressed that foreign interference violates Canada’s sovereignty and democratic institutions, making it a broader Canadian issue beyond just the Sikh community.
The protest coincided with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s attendance at the G7 summit in Alberta, where he met with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. The discussions between the two leaders led to agreements to improve bilateral relations, including reinstating high commissioners and enhancing visa services for citizens and businesses. However, Singh expressed frustration at the lack of concrete outcomes and objectives in rebuilding the relationship, particularly concerning the threat of India’s foreign influence.
Despite the ongoing judicial process, Modi’s government has denied any involvement in killings on Canadian soil. The need for transparent and cooperative law enforcement dialogue was emphasized during the G7 summit, but concerns remain about addressing the underlying issues related to Nijjar’s murder and foreign interference.
Overall, the protest served as a reminder of the challenges faced by the Sikh community in Canada and the importance of addressing issues of violence, foreign interference, and justice for victims like Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The call for solidarity and action resonates beyond the Khalistan movement, highlighting the broader implications for Canadian sovereignty and security.
