Sikhs for Justice Urges Canadian Hindus of Indian Descent to Depart Amid Nijjar Killing Controversy

Amidst a diplomatic dispute between India and Canada over the killing of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), a pro-Khalistan organization banned in India since 2019, has issued a threat, urging Hindus of Indian origin to leave Canada. SFJ's legal counsel, Gurpatwant Pannun, who has been designated as a terrorist in India, conveyed this message in a viral video.

The video emerged after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau suggested a "potential link" between Indian government agents and Nijjar's killing in June. This assertion led to reciprocal expulsions of senior diplomats. India swiftly dismissed Trudeau's claim as "absurd and motivated," but Trudeau emphasized that Canada had no intention of provoking or escalating the situation.

Vijay Jain, a spokesperson for Canadian Hindus for Harmony, expressed concern about Pannun's threat and the rise of what he called "full-scale Hinduphobia." Recent incidents of temple desecration, attributed to vandals associated with the Khalistani referendum in Canada, have heightened tensions. A petition is pending before the Canadian House of Commons to recognize Hinduphobia as a form of prejudice and discrimination.

Jain drew parallels to the 1985 Khalistani bombing of Air India Flight 182, Canada's deadliest terrorist attack, and expressed fears of potential violence. June 23 is observed in Canada as the National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism in memory of those killed in the bombing.

Commentator Rupa Subramanya raised concerns about the lack of action in response to Pannun's threat and highlighted the potential consequences. SFJ has claimed to feel emboldened by recent actions by the Trudeau government.

In an opinion piece, Andrew Coyne emphasized the need to maintain peace in Canada following Nijjar's killing, warning of the risk of ethnic and sectarian violence.

Canadian Minister Anita Anand, who is Hindu, appealed for calm and urged South Asians and families from India to remain unified and empathetic during this challenging time.

Also Read: Five Eyes Alliance Stands by Canada’s Nijjar Killing Investigation: Key Details to Know

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