Students, families worry after Sikh extremist issues warning to Hindus in Canada

Hindu families residing in Canada on study visas and work permits are living in fear after receiving threats from US-based Sikh extremist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Pannun has called on Hindus to leave Canada, citing their alleged failure to condemn the killing of Khalistan Tiger Force chief Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Traditionally, Punjabi Sikhs had been the primary group migrating to Canada. However, over the past six years, Hindu families and students have also been joining the ranks, seeking opportunities in the Great White North. According to an immigration agent from Bathinda, "Middle-class Hindus with easy loans and ready documents get there faster than Sikh families."

Amit Mittal, whose son is pursuing his studies in Surrey, expressed his concerns, saying, "Already, we were tense since the diplomatic fallout, and now they have asked Hindus to leave Canada for not condemning Nijjar’s killing. The Canadian government shouldn't allow religious hatred, for the sake of its own image."


Satish Bansal from Barnala, whose daughter is also a student in Surrey, shared their predicament, stating, "We have a big study loan to pay off and a dilemma to deal with."

Ramesh Chand, a resident of Bathinda who sent his son to Brampton, added, "Scared after this threat, we hope that the Canadian government intervenes."

In response to the situation, Akal Takht jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh expressed his concern regarding Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's statement. Trudeau had mentioned that his government was investigating "credible allegations" that Indian agents were responsible for the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

"Trudeau's statement has not only hurt the sentiments of the global Sikh community but has also reminded it of Operation Bluestar, the 1984 genocide, and the tragic events in Punjab. The Centre should come clean and ensure the safety and security of the Sikhs living abroad," the jathedar said. This development adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing situation faced by Hindu families in Canada, who are now anxiously awaiting resolution and reassurance.