Another Sikh Canadian activist has received a “duty to warn” letter, raising concerns about the Carney government’s handling of Indian government foreign interference and transnational repression. Inderjeet Singh Gosal disclosed that he was contacted by the RCMP by phone in Caledon, Ont., and received the letter on Friday, Aug. 14. These letters are issued by police when there is credible intelligence suggesting a threat to a citizen’s life, without divulging details about the threat itself.
Gosal confirmed that the RCMP reiterated an earlier offer to enroll him in a witness protection program, despite not being a witness in any criminal cases. However, he declined the offer, expressing a willingness to face any potential threat rather than abandoning his advocacy for the Khalistan referendum, a cause supported by Sikh separatists aiming for an independent Sikh homeland in India’s Punjab region.
Following the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who led the Canadian referendum campaign, tensions between Canada and India escalated, leading to a decrease in diplomatic representations between the two countries. Despite recent efforts by the Carney government to mend relations and focus on economic ties with India, duty to warn letters continue to be issued. The letter received by Gosal did not directly mention the Indian government but highlighted a threat to his life without providing specific details.
In response to ongoing concerns, Canada has faced scrutiny from UN rapporteurs regarding its response to threats against Sikh activists. While Canada has assured the rapporteurs of its commitment to protecting its citizens, those targeted by the Indian government remain skeptical, pointing to the issuance of duty to warn letters as evidence of persisting threats.
Gosal commended the RCMP for fulfilling their duty but criticized the Carney government for pursuing closer ties with India despite alleged threats to Canadian citizens. He remains resolute in his activism, emphasizing his determination to proceed with organizing the upcoming referendum despite potential risks. India has denied involvement in violent acts in Canada, including the Nijjar assassination.
Gosal reiterated his commitment to the democratic process and organizing the forthcoming referendum, undeterred by the challenges posed by what he perceives as transnational repression orchestrated by the Indian government.