Every month, a gathering takes place in a barren grey car park behind one of North America’s largest Sikh temples to honor Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Nijjar, a prominent Punjabi separatist campaigner and Canadian citizen, was shot and killed on June 18. Recently, the atmosphere outside the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara in Surrey, Canada, has become more intense. This change began with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s statement to Parliament, in which he spoke of “credible allegations” linking Nijjar’s death to “agents” of the Indian government. Trudeau’s statement brought a sense of vindication to Sikh activists in Canada, who are now more determined than ever to campaign for an independent Punjabi state, Khalistan. Punjab is seen as the homeland for many Sikhs, with approximately half of its population being Sikh. “He was so committed to the cause that he was willing to sacrifice his life for it,” said Gurkeerat Singh, a temple volunteer, referring to Nijjar. “So for us, that is something that is giving us energy and fueling us to continue his work.”
Trudeau’s statement has caused a significant diplomatic standoff between Ottawa and New Delhi. India has now warned its citizens to be cautious when traveling to Canada. The timing of this controversy is also significant, as India seeks to establish itself as a new superpower, hosting a gathering of G20 countries just days before Trudeau’s statement. Canada, specifically British Columbia, which is home to the largest population of Sikhs outside India, has been affected by this rift. The province has a significant Punjabi population, making up about 6% of the total population. Additionally, there are approximately 14,000 Gujarati people who reside in British Columbia and support Modi and his Hindu faith.
India has expressed concerns about the presence of Khalistan separatist activity in the greater Vancouver area for some time. Now, Sikhs in Surrey believe that Trudeau’s international attention to their cause will give their campaign new momentum. “Often this movement – this Khalistan movement – is considered a fringe movement,” said Singh. “Numbers are growing day by day, and this is going to help the people who might have fear inside of them…to get behind the cause.” In Vancouver, Trudeau’s willingness to confront the Modi government has made him a hero within the Sikh community. “We appreciate somebody finally vocalizing what we’ve been saying for a very, very long time,” said one community organizer.
Sikhs make up about 2% of Canada’s population but have significant representation in the country’s politics and commerce. The controversy surrounding Nijjar’s death has energized the Punjabi independence movement in Canada. However, it also raises questions about whether Canada is providing a safe haven for individuals who pose threats to other countries. India sees this situation as a threat to its national survival, while Canada views it as a free-speech issue. This concern has led to a rift between the two countries. Stephanie Carvin, an assistant professor of international affairs, questions why foreign agents are allowed to operate in Canada seemingly without consequence.
In Surrey, Nijjar is remembered as a tireless campaigner and a fatherly figure. He was known for his willingness to help others at the Gurudwara, including laying out chairs, scrubbing the kitchen, and arranging accommodations for students. However, the Modi government viewed Nijjar as a terrorist and a leader of “anti-India activities” due to his support for Khalistan. He was wanted, and a bounty was placed on his head. Despite Trudeau’s announcement, Gujaratis in British Columbia still view Modi as a hero who has spearheaded India’s economic revolution. Trudeau’s statement is unlikely to change their perspective.
As tensions rise between communities, politicians are calling for calm. Demonstrations are planned outside Indian consulates and the High Commission in Ottawa, but some Sikh activists believe Nijjar’s death and the resulting international fallout is just the beginning. They vow to continue their fight for an independent Punjabi state. “That’s how it works in our Sikh history. You can take away one voice; thousands more will rise,” said the community organizer.
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