Canadian Journalist Faces Violent Assault from Khalistani Extremists in Vancouver
On June 8, 2025, Canadian independent journalist Mocha Bezirgan experienced a harrowing encounter while covering a rally in Vancouver organized by Khalistani supporters. The journalist revealed he was physically attacked and threatened by a group aligned with extremist Khalistani factions, raising serious concerns about the climate of intimidation faced by independent reporters covering sensitive political issues.
Details of the Assault
Bezirgan shared on social media that he was surrounded by several individuals who behaved aggressively, threatening him and forcibly seizing his phone. He described the assailants as acting “like thugs” and confirmed that the harassment was not an isolated incident but a continuation of previous targeted intimidation carried out against him by the same group.
"It happened just two hours ago and I’m still shaken," Bezirgan stated, recounting how one particular individual who had harassed him online for months escalated to physical confrontation during the rally.
Motivation Behind the Attack
The journalist believes his editorial independence and neutral coverage of Khalistan-related protests in multiple countries—including Canada, the UK, the US, and New Zealand—have provoked frustration among certain Khalistani radicals. He emphasized that his only goal is to report facts independently, without bias.
“They have even attempted to influence and buy me, but these intimidation tactics won’t deter me or affect my journalistic principles,” Bezirgan affirmed emphatically.
Ongoing Threats and Police Reports
Despite the ongoing threats and attempts to obstruct his reporting, Bezirgan continued to document the incident, sharing videos that show assailants blocking his exit and provoking him. He detailed how one individual refused to maintain distance, repeatedly issued violent threats, and encouraged others to interfere with his work.
The journalist previously reported harassment incidents to the police and has since filed new complaints following this recent assault.
Concerns Over Extremism and Free Speech Abuse
Speaking further, Bezirgan highlighted broader issues related to Khalistani extremism, particularly groups affiliated with Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), which is banned in India for terrorist activities. He expressed alarm at how these groups use freedom of speech to glorify violence, including celebrating the assassins of former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and threatening current Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“This is a highly sensitive political subject, especially amid growing tensions between Canada and India. However, the underground celebrations of political violence and calls for ambushes cannot be ignored,” he cautioned.
Diplomatic Strains Between Canada and India
India has repeatedly criticized Canada for its perceived leniency toward Khalistani extremist groups and their activities on Canadian soil. This dynamic has significantly strained diplomatic relations between the two countries, with India alleging that pro-Khalistani elements operate with relative impunity in Canada, while Canada accuses India of targeting dissidents abroad.
Conclusion
The incident involving Mocha Bezirgan sheds light on the pressing challenges journalists face when reporting on divisive and politically sensitive issues. It also underscores the need for robust protections for press freedom and measures to curb extremist intimidation in democratic societies.