Another Sikh Canadian activist recently received a “duty to warn” letter, raising doubts about the Carney government’s handling of Indian government foreign interference and transnational repression allegations. Inderjeet Singh Gosal disclosed that he was contacted by the RCMP and handed the letter in Caledon, Ont., on Aug. 14.
The duty to warn letters are typically issued by authorities when there is credible intelligence suggesting a threat to a citizen’s life. Gosal stated that the RCMP informed him of a threat to his life and requested to meet him urgently for the written warning. He mentioned that the RCMP reiterated an earlier offer to enroll him in a witness protection program, but he declined as he preferred to continue advocating for the Khalistan referendum.
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 Sikh diaspora communities worldwide have stirred tensions with 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 noted that this latest warning marks his sixth official police alert.
The issuance of such warnings has escalated since the Carney government initiated efforts to mend relations with the Narendra Modi government. After Nijjar’s assassination, Canada accused New Delhi of orchestrating the hit to suppress the Khalistani movement overseas, leading to reduced diplomatic representations between the two nations.
Despite the government’s focus on strengthening commercial ties with India, duty to warn letters persist. The letter received by Gosal did not directly implicate the Indian government but highlighted a threat to his life without providing specific details.
Canada has faced scrutiny from UN rapporteurs regarding its handling of threats to Sikh-origin citizens, particularly referencing the case of Moninder Singh in British Columbia. The government has reassured the rapporteurs of its commitment to protecting its citizens, yet individuals like Gosal view the ongoing issuance of warning letters as evidence of persistent threats.
While appreciating the RCMP’s efforts, Gosal criticized the Carney government’s approach and questioned its pursuit of enhanced bilateral relations with India amid allegations of extrajudicial actions. Despite the risks, Gosal remains steadfast in his advocacy for the upcoming referendum in Edmonton, Alberta, scheduled for Oct. 18.