Another Sikh Canadian activist has recently been sent a “duty to warn” notification, raising doubts about the Carney government’s assertions of addressing Indian government foreign interference and transnational repression. Inderjeet Singh Gosal disclosed receiving the warning on Aug. 14 after a phone call from the RCMP in Caledon, Ont.
The duty to warn letters are typically issued when the police have credible information suggesting a threat to a citizen’s life, without specifying the nature of the threat. Gosal, acknowledging the letter signed by two RCMP members and himself, stated that the police reiterated an earlier offer to enroll him in a witness protection program, despite his lack of involvement in any criminal proceedings.
Refusing the protection program, Gosal expressed his commitment to advocating for the Khalistan referendum, a cause supported by Sikh separatists for an independent Sikh homeland in India’s Punjab region. Gosal, appointed as the leader of the Canadian referendum campaign following the death of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, stated that it was his sixth official police warning.
The issuance of such warnings has increased following the Carney government’s efforts to normalize relations with the Modi government and the subsequent tensions between Canada and India. Despite Canada’s focus on economic ties with India and assurances from the Indian government regarding illegal activities, duty to warn letters persist, indicating ongoing threats.
Canada has faced scrutiny from UN rapporteurs regarding its handling of threats to Canadian Sikhs, particularly individuals engaged in separatist activities. While Canada has assured the rapporteurs of its commitment to citizen protection, those targeted by the Indian government remain unconvinced, citing the continuous issuance of warning letters as evidence of persistent threats.
Gosal commended the RCMP for fulfilling its duty in informing him of the threats but criticized the Carney government for prioritizing business and diplomatic engagements with India despite ongoing threats. Gosal reaffirmed his dedication to organizing the upcoming referendum, emphasizing the importance of democratic processes amid attempts to suppress such activities by the Indian government.
