Another Sikh Canadian activist has received a “duty to warn” communication, raising doubts about the Carney government’s assertion that it has addressed the issue of Indian government foreign interference and transnational repression. Inderjeet Singh Gosal disclosed that he was handed the letter on August 14 after being contacted by the RCMP in Caledon, Ontario.
The duty to warn notices are issued by law enforcement when they have credible intelligence indicating a threat to a citizen’s life. Gosal mentioned that the RCMP informed him about a threat to his life and requested to meet him urgently to deliver the warning in writing.
Although the letter did not specify the source of the threat, Gosal confirmed the offer to enroll him in a witness protection program, which he declined. He expressed his commitment to advocating for the Khalistan referendum despite the risks.
Khalistan refers to the proposed independent Sikh homeland in India’s Punjab region. The series of non-binding referendums organized by Sikhs for Justice in various diaspora communities since 2021 has incensed the Indian government.
Following the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June 2023, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun appointed Gosal as the leader of the Canadian referendum campaign. Gosal revealed that this latest warning marks his sixth official police notice.
The letters are part of a series issued by Canadian authorities amid efforts to normalize relations with India. Tensions escalated after Nijjar’s killing, with allegations of Indian involvement to suppress the Khalistani movement abroad.
Despite attempts to move past the dispute and focus on economic ties, duty to warn letters persist. Canada has faced scrutiny from UN rapporteurs over its handling of threats to Sikh Canadian activists, including Gosal and Moninder Singh. Gosal praised the RCMP for fulfilling their duty but criticized the government’s business and diplomatic outreach to India amid ongoing threats.
The upcoming referendum on October 18 in Edmonton, Alberta, remains a priority for Gosal, who is resolute in continuing his advocacy despite the risks posed by the Indian government’s actions. India has denied any involvement in violent acts in Canada, reiterating Gosal’s determination to pursue democratic processes despite external pressures.
