‘Only 2% Canadians are Sikhs… if a section of this wants Khalistan, let them have it in Canada’

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Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has alleged India’s involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Your thoughts?

Indian government has completely refuted this accusation. However, the Prime Minister (Justin Trudeau) has made his statement, and I assume he has some basis for it. My only concern is that he hasn’t provided any evidence. It would have been preferable if the RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police) had completed their investigation, laid charges if necessary, and then the PM made his statement.

Where do Indo-Canadian relations stand now?

They are at their lowest point, essentially in cold storage. At this juncture, only a change in leadership in both countries might improve relations. There is a profound lack of trust between the two governments. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all about muscular nationalism, while Trudeau embraces a more woke approach, and both feel the need to demonstrate it. We require maturity and a large heart to break this deadlock.

What is the way forward?

Put aside the Khalistan issue and engage in dialogue. Canadians asking for Khalistan are not going to disintegrate India. Sikhs in India don’t want Khalistan. I was in Punjab in May earlier this year and I can vouch for this. So why should India bother so much about these sloganeers? Protests and referendums are part of democracy. Even the Supreme Court of India has ruled that asking for Khalistan is not a crime as long as you are not being violent. Only 2 per cent of Canadians are Sikhs. If a section of this tiny community in Canada wants Khalistan, let them have it in Alberta or Saskatchewan, why should India feel so threatened?

How long has the Khalistani movement been present in Canada?

This movement has been present since the 1970s when Khalistan ideologue Jagjit Singh Chohan first arrived in Canada. Part of its growth stems from the fact that these individuals have limited connections to Canada, often feeling alienated from their place of residence. They lack an understanding of the Canadian government and continue to harbour grievances against India.

Sikhs suffered atrocities in India during the 1980s but they have moved on. In Canada, these grievances live on in their heads and hearts. They engage on social networks and attend temples where emotions are inflamed. Many of those advocating for Khalistan have never set foot in India. Youngsters born in Canada have never experienced India and are influenced by their parents’ narratives. Those who are new may be in the process of seeking refugee status, potentially fabricating evidence against India.

Is there truth to the allegation that the Canadian government is partial to Khalistanis?

Prime Minister Trudeau is perceived to have close ties to Khalistanis, and there may be some truth in this perception. However, it’s essential to note that he is not aligned with violent Khalistanis.

Have recent incidents led to polarisation between Hindus and Sikhs in Canada?

Absolutely not. I don’t observe it anywhere. I am aware that some antisocial elements have attempted to vandalise Hindu temples on multiple occasions, trying to incite violence but without success. In 1984, I felt some distance between the two communities, but that has subsided over time.