Canadian Journalist Highlights Rising Khalistani Extremism Ahead of G7 Summit
A Canadian investigative journalist has sounded the alarm on the increasing presence and aggressive activities of Khalistani extremists within Canada. This development comes just days before the G7 Summit, scheduled to take place in Canada, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to attend.
Physical Confrontation at Pro-Khalistan Rally in Vancouver
Mocha Bezirgan, known for his extensive coverage of Khalistan-linked movements across North America, recently experienced a disturbing incident while reporting at a pro-Khalistan demonstration in Vancouver. He was surrounded and physically confronted by a group of Khalistan supporters who forcibly took his phone and threatened him. "It just happened two hours ago and I'm still shaking," Bezirgan shared, describing the attackers as behaving like thugs intent on silencing him.
This attack was not an isolated event. Bezirgan recalled an earlier episode in March 2024 in Edmonton where he witnessed Khalistan supporters armed with weapons such as daggers, swords, and spears during a protest against India’s High Commissioner. These repeated confrontations reveal an unsettling pattern of intimidation toward independent journalism covering extremism.
Khalistani Groups and Political Networks Under Scrutiny
Bezirgan disclosed that the Khalistani movement in Canada is largely propelled by Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), which organizes and mobilizes supporters from local religious centers. He also pointed to the World Sikh Organization (WSO) of Canada, a prominent political entity whose leadership includes current and former Members of Parliament and ministers. According to Bezirgan, the WSO provides political cover for extremist activities within Canadian institutions.
He criticized Canadian politicians for their apparent reluctance to openly denounce these groups. Notably, some high-profile political figures from the Conservative, New Democratic, and Liberal parties recently participated in a Nagar Kirtan event in Surrey, British Columbia, heavily influenced by Khalistani elements. They even shared the stage with Santokh Singh Kelha, a convicted Sikh Canadian who conspired in a plane bombing.
Glorification of Violence and Rhetoric Targeting Indian Leadership
Of particular concern are the extremist sympathizers who openly celebrate violent acts against Indian leaders, including the assassination of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Bezirgan revealed that these groups have openly vowed to undermine Prime Minister Modi’s political influence, particularly at the impending G7 Summit, declaring, "They say, ‘We are the descendants of the killers of Indira Gandhi,’" thereby glorifying such violent history.
Political Tensions and Media Silence in Canada
Bezirgan lamented the lack of media focus and political accountability surrounding Khalistani extremism in Canada. He urged Canadian leaders to distance themselves from groups with violent track records and inflammatory rhetoric, emphasizing that citizens expect their representatives to uphold democratic values and the rule of law.
G7 Summit Invitation Sparks Backlash from Sikh Community
Amid these tensions, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s decision to invite Prime Minister Modi to the G7 Summit hosted in Kananaskis, Alberta, has ignited sharp criticism. The World Sikh Organization of Canada condemned the invitation, calling it a "betrayal of Canadian values and Sikh concerns."
WSO's legal counsel, Balpreet Singh, explained that the decision caused "outrage and pain" within the Sikh community. The organization had formally requested the Prime Minister to reconsider the invitation but was ultimately overruled, exacerbating divisions between Sikh advocacy groups and the Canadian government.
Persistent Diplomatic Strains Over Extremism
Relations between India and Canada have long been strained by concerns over Khalistani extremism operating on Canadian soil. While hopes for improved ties accompanied Mark Carney's rise after Justin Trudeau, underlying issues remain unresolved, underscoring the complex challenges ahead as the G7 Summit approaches.
Looking Ahead
Prime Minister Modi's attendance is anticipated in Alberta by June 17 for the G7 outreach session, amid these contentious dynamics. As diplomatic and political tensions linger, the spotlight remains on Canada’s handling of extremist activities and its implications for bilateral relations with India.