OTTAWA – The Canadian government has strongly denounced a threatening video released by the pro-Khalistan organization Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), which targeted Hindus of Indian origin residing in Canada. The video, which called for their departure from the country, has drawn stern condemnation from Canada’s public safety minister, Dominic LeBlanc, and emergency preparedness minister, Harjit Sajjan. These statements come amidst growing tensions between India and Canada regarding the murder of Sikh independence advocate Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
In the video, SFJ, a pro-Khalistan group, issued threats against Hindu Canadians earlier this week, causing alarm within the Indian-Canadian community.
Minister LeBlanc took to his official social media account, stating, “All Canadians deserve to feel safe in their communities. The circulation of an online hate video targeting Hindu Canadians runs contrary to the values we hold dear as Canadians. There is no place for acts of aggression, hate, intimidation, or incitement of fear.” His department echoed his sentiments, labeling the video as “offensive and hateful.”
Emergency Preparedness Minister Harjit Sajjan echoed the sentiment, sending a message of solidarity to Hindu Canadians and Indians from all backgrounds. He said, “To Hindu Canadians and Indians from all backgrounds: Anyone who says you do not deserve to be safe & welcomed in your home does not embody the values of freedom and kindness we hold dear as Canadians. Do not let others delegitimize or question your place and love for Canada.”
The video’s release follows the unresolved murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was shot dead outside a Sikh cultural center in Surrey, British Columbia, two months ago. Nijjar’s death has become a focal point in the escalating tension between India and Canada.
Sikh organizations have described Nijjar as a human rights activist, while India’s government has labeled him a criminal. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recently stated that his government was investigating “credible allegations” linking Indian government agents to Nijjar’s killing. India, however, has vehemently denied any involvement, deeming the allegations absurd.
In a renewed statement, Prime Minister Trudeau maintained his stance, saying, “There are credible reasons to believe that agents of the Government of India were involved in the killing of a Canadian on Canadian soil.” He emphasized the importance of adhering to the rule of law and called upon the Government of India to cooperate in ensuring transparency, accountability, and justice in the matter.
As international scrutiny continues to intensify, Canada remains steadfast in its commitment to inclusivity, safety, and a rules-based order.
News Summary:
- Canada condemns a threatening video by pro-Khalistan group SFJ, which targeted Hindu Canadians, emphasizing the importance of safety and inclusivity.
- Tensions between India and Canada rise amid investigations into the murder of Sikh advocate Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
- Canadian officials, including Prime Minister Trudeau, call for transparency and accountability in the investigation while India denies involvement.
- The international community closely watches developments as Canada upholds its commitment to a rules-based order.