At the center of the dispute is Nijjar, a prominent pro-Khalistan figure who was killed outside a Sikh temple in British Columbia earlier this year. His death sparked accusations from Canadian authorities, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who suggested potential involvement by the Indian state. This claim has triggered a diplomatic standoff, with both nations expelling senior diplomats in a tit-for-tat move.
In his latest statement, Pannun expanded his call for action, urging the expulsion of Indian diplomats and a complete halt to trade negotiations with India. His demand coincides with the rising prominence of the Khalistan movement in Canada, a movement pushing for an independent Sikh homeland separate from India.
The impact of these tensions is already being felt within Canada's Indo-Canadian community, with heightened concerns about rising religious and political divides. Pannun's rhetoric has drawn criticism from many quarters, particularly within the Hindu community, which has been vocal in its fears of targeted violence. Vijay Jain, a spokesperson for Canadian Hindus for Harmony, expressed concerns about the security of Hindus, referencing previous violent incidents linked to the Khalistani movement.
Canada has witnessed several acts of vandalism, allegedly linked to pro-Khalistan activists. Temples across the country have been defaced with anti-India posters, raising alarm among Canadian Hindus. These tensions have prompted a petition to the Canadian House of Commons, seeking official recognition of “Hinduphobia” as part of the nation’s Human Rights Code, a move that is gaining momentum with almost 9,000 signatures. Jain, drawing on the tragic history of the 1985 Air India bombing—perpetrated by Khalistani extremists—warned of the potential dangers if the current diplomatic tensions were not managed carefully.
While Trudeau's remarks linking the Indian government to Nijjar's assassination have led to calls for investigations and international scrutiny, they have also emboldened pro-Khalistan activists. Critics argue that Trudeau’s comments have only served to deepen divisions within Canada's multi-ethnic fabric, with many Canadian citizens left uncertain about the future of their community relations.
The diplomatic fallout is having broader consequences for Canada-India relations, extending beyond politics and impacting bilateral trade. While trade talks between the two countries had initially gained momentum with discussions on a free trade agreement, Pannun and other Khalistan leaders are now pushing for a complete cessation of such negotiations. Observers note that this could have far-reaching implications for both economies, particularly in sectors where mutual cooperation has been beneficial.
Despite the intensifying rhetoric, Indian authorities have consistently denied involvement in Nijjar's death, with New Delhi condemning what it describes as “politically motivated” accusations. Indian diplomats in Canada have emphasized the need for facts and evidence to underpin any claims, while calling for better protection of Indian-origin citizens facing threats from extremist elements in Canada.
Meanwhile, the upcoming Khalistan Referendum, organized by SFJ, is set to be held in Vancouver, adding another layer of complexity to the ongoing dispute. Pannun has framed the referendum as a symbolic act of defiance against the Indian state, particularly pointing to High Commissioner Sanjay Verma as a target of pro-Khalistan protests. The outcome of this referendum, although not legally binding, could further strain Canada-India ties, especially if it draws significant participation from the diaspora.