Another Sikh Canadian activist has received a “duty to warn” letter, raising concerns about the Carney administration’s handling of Indian government foreign interference and transnational repression. Inderjeet Singh Gosal disclosed that he was contacted by the RCMP and handed the letter on Friday, Aug. 14, in Caledon, Ont. These warning letters are issued by law enforcement when there is credible information indicating a threat to an individual’s life, without specifying the nature of the threat.
Gosal confirmed his receipt of the letter to CBC News, signed by two RCMP officers and himself as the “Intended Victim.” He mentioned that the RCMP reiterated an earlier offer to include him in a witness protection program, despite not being a witness in any ongoing legal matters. Declining the protection, Gosal expressed his commitment to advocating for the Khalistan referendum and his preference to face any risks associated with it.
The Khalistan movement seeks an independent Sikh homeland in India’s Punjab region, with non-binding referendums conducted by organizations like Sikhs for Justice across global Sikh communities since 2021, provoking strong reactions from the Indian government.
Following the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, B.C., in June 2023, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun appointed Gosal to lead the Canadian referendum campaign. Gosal mentioned this latest warning was his sixth official police alert and is part of a series of alerts issued during the government’s efforts to normalize relations with India.
Despite diplomatic tensions and allegations of Indian involvement in Nijjar’s killing leading to reduced diplomatic presence in both countries, the Carney government aims to enhance economic ties with India, asserting satisfaction with assurances from the Indian government against illegal activities in Canada. However, the ongoing issuance of duty to warn letters indicates persistent threats.
Canada has faced scrutiny from UN rapporteurs over its handling of threats to Sikh-Canadian activists, with concerns raised about the safety of individuals like Moninder Singh Khalistani. While Canada has assured the UN of its commitment to protecting its citizens, the recipients of these warnings remain skeptical, pointing to ongoing threats from the Indian government.
Gosal expressed gratitude towards the RCMP for informing him about the threats but criticized the Carney government for prioritizing diplomatic relations with India over addressing security concerns. He vowed to continue his advocacy for the Khalistan referendum despite risks and emphasized the importance of upholding democratic processes against external repression efforts.