Another Sikh Canadian activist has received a “duty to warn” letter, raising doubts about the Carney government’s assertion of addressing Indian government foreign interference and transnational repression. Inderjeet Singh Gosal disclosed receiving the letter on August 14 after being contacted by the RCMP in Caledon, Ontario. These letters are issued by police when there is credible intelligence indicating a threat to a citizen’s life without specifying the nature of the threat.
Gosal confirmed the RCMP informed him of a threat to his life and requested to meet him urgently to deliver the duty to warn in writing. He declined enrollment in a witness protection program, reiterating his commitment to campaigning for the Khalistan referendum despite the offer.
The Khalistan referendum seeks an independent Sikh homeland in India’s Punjab region, which has incited backlash from the Indian government. Gosal, appointed to lead the Canadian referendum campaign following the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, highlighted that this marked his sixth official police warning.
These warnings coincide with Canada’s efforts to normalize relations with India, following strained ties post-Nijjar’s killing and diplomatic reductions between the nations. Despite reassurances from India and Canada’s intent to refocus on economic ties, duty to warn letters persist, indicating ongoing threats. The letter to Gosal did not explicitly mention the Indian government but stated a threat against his life without specific details.
Additionally, Canada has faced scrutiny from UN rapporteurs regarding its handling of threats to Canadian Sikhs, particularly Moninder Singh’s case. While Canada assures protection, those feeling targeted by India cite duty to warn letters as evidence of continued threats.
Gosal commended the RCMP for fulfilling their duty but criticized the Carney government’s approach, questioning the push for business and diplomatic relations with India amid alleged extrajudicial plots on Canadian soil. Despite the risks, Gosal remains steadfast in his activism, gearing up for the upcoming referendum in Edmonton on October 18. India has denied any involvement in violent acts in Canada, including Nijjar’s assassination.