The recent rise in targeted violence against Sikh and other minority communities of Indian origin in North America has brought to light a complex array of grievances, political tensions, and serious allegations against the Indian government. Canadian Member of Parliament Chandra Arya recently condemned an incident in Canada, asserting that a “red line” had been crossed by Khalistani extremists. The Ontario Sikhs and Gurdwara Council (OSGC), a prominent body representing Sikhs in Canada, responded by describing the incident outside a temple as “a distressing reminder of the need for understanding and mutual respect in our community.” This underscores the gravity of the event and the growing tensions within the South Asian diaspora, particularly among Sikhs, who express mounting concerns regarding the influence of what they term as “Modi Sarkar” (Modi government) on their lives abroad.
These incidents abroad reflect broader frustrations tied to India’s domestic policies, as seen by Sikh, Muslim, and other marginalized communities. Activists argue that the rise of Hindu nationalism, or “Hindutva,” under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has led to reduced protections for minorities. Many within these groups view the Modi government’s policies as intended to assert Hindu dominance at the expense of minority rights. Reports from international media outlets, including The Financial Times and The Intercept, have fueled these concerns by revealing alleged plots by Indian intelligence to silence critics abroad. Among the targets are not only prominent pro-Khalistan leaders but also dissidents and activists speaking for Kashmiri rights.
One specific case is that of Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a U.S. and Canadian dual citizen who advocates for Sikh separatism as legal counsel for Sikhs for Justice. Recently, Pannun reportedly escaped an assassination attempt in the U.S., which was allegedly organized by Indian operatives. Additionally, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian Sikh leader, was killed in Canada in an incident that the Canadian government attributes to alleged Indian interference. These high-profile incidents have raised alarms within diaspora communities, particularly among Sikhs, who increasingly fear for their safety and political freedoms. The escalating tensions are seen as extending beyond national borders, affecting not only Indian communities abroad but also the political relations between their host countries and India.
The Sikh community’s difficult relationship with India stems from a history of grievances tied to self-determination and aspirations for an independent Sikh state, known as Khalistan. Calls for Khalistan grew louder in the 1980s, reaching a peak during Operation Blue Star, a controversial military operation carried out by the Indian government at the Golden Temple in Amritsar. For many Sikh communities in Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom, the Khalistan movement has become a lasting symbol of resistance against perceived state oppression. The Modi government’s firm stance on national unity and its suppression of separatist sentiment has only deepened these grievances. In particular, the killing of Nijjar and the alleged attempt on Pannun’s life serve as stark reminders of the lengths to which the Indian government is accused of going to suppress Sikh activists abroad.
Following Nijjar’s assassination, the Canadian government shared what it described as credible evidence implicating Indian officials. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s public remarks sparked a diplomatic crisis, with Indian officials denying involvement. This dispute has damaged Canada-India relations and led to calls from various sectors for international intervention. Canadian MP Chandra Arya’s condemnation of the recent incident illustrates the urgency of addressing the underlying causes of division and conflict within Canadian society. Arya’s statement that a “red line” had been crossed indicates a growing recognition that continued silence may no longer be an option.
A central point in this conflict is the role of Hindu nationalism and its impact on the Indian diaspora. Critics argue that the Modi government encourages Hindu NRIs to assert their cultural identity and influence local politics in line with Hindutva ideology. For minority communities, including Sikhs and Muslims, this influence is seen as a marginalizing force, reinforcing Hindu dominance. The OSGC’s call for mutual respect and understanding reflects concerns that certain ideologies may be fueling tensions among Canadian citizens.
As the issue of India’s alleged interference gains international attention, there is a pressing need for global awareness and intervention. The Canadian government, along with other Western nations, faces the challenge of balancing diplomatic ties with India against the imperative of protecting its minority citizens. Civil society organizations, human rights advocates, and Sikh advocacy groups have a critical role to play in raising awareness and pushing for international oversight on such matters.
These incidents are a stark reminder of the potential hazards of unchecked nationalist ideologies, which risk spilling over into the international arena and creating tensions among immigrant communities. The targeting of individuals like Nijjar and Pannun points to a larger pattern that calls for immediate attention. The global community, including human rights organizations and international bodies, must address this call for justice and hold the Indian government accountable.
The Sikh community’s plight, both in India and abroad, reveals a deeply troubling crisis that demands urgent action. These incidents emphasize the importance of protecting fundamental human rights and freedoms, especially in multicultural societies. The collective response to these recent events will shape Indo-Western relations, minority rights, and global peace in the years ahead.