Another Sikh Canadian activist has received a “duty to warn” letter, raising concerns about the Carney government’s handling of Indian government interference and transnational repression issues. Inderjeet Singh Gosal disclosed that he was contacted by the RCMP and handed the letter on August 14 in Caledon, Ontario.
The duty to warn letter, a precautionary measure by law enforcement when there is credible information of a threat to an individual’s life, was presented to Gosal without specific details regarding the nature of the threat. Despite an offer to enroll him in a witness protection program, Gosal declined, expressing his commitment to campaigning for the Khalistan referendum over personal safety concerns.
Khalistan refers to the proposed independent Sikh homeland in India’s Punjab region, supported by Sikh separatists. Recent non-binding referendums conducted by Sikhs for Justice in various global regions have drawn ire from the Indian government.
Following the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June 2023, who was actively involved in the Canadian referendum campaign, Gosal was appointed as his successor by international leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Gosal revealed that this latest warning letter marks his sixth official police advisory.
The issuance of such warnings has become a common occurrence since the Carney government initiated reconciliation efforts with the Narendra Modi administration, following strained relations due to Nijjar’s assassination and allegations of Indian involvement in suppressing the Khalistani movement abroad. Despite efforts to mend ties and focus on economic cooperation with India, duty to warn letters persist, underscoring ongoing security concerns.
Canada has faced scrutiny from UN rapporteurs regarding the protection of Sikh-origin citizens, with particular attention on individuals engaged in Sikh separatist activities like Gosal and Moninder Singh in British Columbia. While Canada has assured the UN of its commitment to safeguarding citizens, the continued issuance of duty to warn letters indicates persistent threats perceived by targeted individuals.
Gosal commended the RCMP for fulfilling their duty in notifying him of the threats but criticized the Carney government for prioritizing business and diplomatic engagements with India while risks to Canadian citizens persist. Despite challenges, Gosal remains resolute in his advocacy for the upcoming referendum, highlighting the democratic exercise targeted by transnational repression efforts led by the Indian government. India has denied any involvement in violent incidents in Canada, including the Nijjar assassination.
The next referendum is scheduled for October 18 in Edmonton, Alberta, and Gosal remains steadfast in his commitment to the cause despite the risks associated with his activism.