Another Sikh Canadian activist has been notified with a “duty to warn” letter, raising concerns about the Carney government’s assertions regarding addressing Indian government foreign interference and transnational repression. Inderjeet Singh Gosal disclosed that he was contacted by the RCMP and received the letter on Friday, August 14, in Caledon, Ont.
These letters are issued by law enforcement when credible intelligence indicates a threat to a person’s life, without disclosing the specific details. Gosal confirmed that the RCMP informed him of a threat to his life and requested an immediate meeting to provide the written warning.
Although offered enrollment in a witness protection program, Gosal declined, stating his preference to continue advocating for the Khalistan referendum, even if it means facing potential risks. Khalistan refers to the proposed independent Sikh homeland in India’s Punjab region, sparking tensions with the Indian government due to non-binding referendums conducted by Sikhs for Justice in diaspora communities globally.
Following the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June 2023, who led the Canadian referendum campaign, Gosal was appointed as his successor by international leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. This latest warning marked Gosal’s sixth official police notification.
The issuance of these warnings coincided with the Carney government’s efforts to mend relations with the Narendra Modi administration after the Nijjar incident strained Canada-India ties. Despite diplomatic downsizing between both countries, concerns persist regarding Indian government involvement in criminal activities in Canada, leading to the RCMP’s public warning in August 2024.
Despite Canada’s attempts to shift focus towards enhancing business and investment ties with India, duty to warn letters persist. The recent letter to Gosal did not explicitly mention the Indian government but highlighted a perceived threat to his life.
Canada has faced scrutiny from UN rapporteurs regarding its handling of threats to Canadian Sikhs, particularly in cases like Moninder Singh in British Columbia. While Canada assured the rapporteurs of its commitment to citizen protection, individuals like Gosal remain wary, citing ongoing threats evident through the warning letters.
Acknowledging the RCMP’s duty to inform him of the threats, Gosal criticized the Carney government for prioritizing diplomatic and business engagements with India despite the perceived risks to Canadian Sikh activists. Despite denials from India regarding involvement in Canadian violence, Gosal remains resolute in his commitment to the democratic process and organizing the upcoming referendum on October 18 in Edmonton, Alberta.
