The Sikh community in Canada staged a major protest outside the Indian Consulate in Vancouver, accusing New Delhi of running secret networks aimed at silencing pro-Khalistan leaders. The demonstration drew attention to growing allegations of India’s involvement in global plots against Sikh activists.
Protest Led by Sikhs for Justice
The protest was organized by Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), a prominent Khalistan advocacy group. In a media advisory, SFJ described the demonstration as a “historic protest” against India’s intelligence networks, alleging that the consulate was effectively placed under “siege” during the event.
Five pro-Khalistan activists performed Ardas, a Sikh prayer, at the protest site. Organizers said the prayer symbolized resistance against what they claimed were “R&AW-backed assassination plots” directed by the Indian government.
Allegations Against Indian Intelligence
Protesters accused Indian intelligence agencies, particularly the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW), of orchestrating international conspiracies targeting Sikh leaders advocating for Khalistan. They alleged that the Indian government brands the Khalistan movement as “terrorist” while, in their words, “the real terrorists sit in New Delhi and Indian missions abroad.”
The activists also criticized the appointment of Dinesh Patnaik as India’s new High Commissioner to Canada. According to SFJ, his posting represents an extension of India’s intelligence activities in the country.
Rising Tensions Between India and Canada
The protest comes at a time of heightened tensions between India and Canada. Relations between the two nations worsened after allegations of Indian involvement in the killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, British Columbia, in 2023.
Nijjar, a vocal Khalistan supporter, was gunned down outside a Sikh temple, sparking outrage across Sikh communities worldwide. Canada publicly accused Indian operatives of playing a role in the assassination, further straining diplomatic ties.
Global Sikh Activism and Continued Friction
The Sikh diaspora in Canada has long been a vocal advocate for Khalistan, a proposed independent Sikh state. Protests, public campaigns, and political lobbying have intensified in recent years, often drawing sharp criticism from New Delhi.
SFJ and other Sikh organizations continue to insist that India is using covert means to target their leaders abroad. They argue that such actions not only undermine democratic values but also threaten the safety of Sikh communities outside India.
The Sikh protest in Vancouver highlights the growing divide between India and its critics within the Sikh diaspora. As accusations of secret networks and assassination plots continue to surface, relations between India and Canada remain under significant strain. Observers believe further protests are likely, keeping the issue firmly in the global spotlight.
