Concerns are mounting within Canada’s Indian community as pro-Khalistani entities (PKE) escalate their activities, targeting individuals and businesses opposed to the separatist movement. The increase in protests and physical confrontations has led to widespread fear, particularly in areas with large Indian populations. Sources within Indian intelligence agencies report that the situation has worsened following a meeting between Khalistani leaders and Pakistani groups in early November. This alliance is believed to be strengthening the pro-Khalistani agenda in Canada, amplifying calls for violence and intimidation against those perceived as opposing their cause.
Social Media and Physical Threats Increasingly Target Indian Nationals
Reports suggest that these Khalistani groups have infiltrated social media platforms, including WhatsApp, to gather intelligence and organize harassment campaigns. The targets are often Indian professionals, business owners, and students, who are receiving threatening messages and demands to either support the Khalistan movement or leave Canada. In some cases, personal information—such as home addresses and contact details—has been shared within these online groups, heightening the risk to families.
One significant concern is the targeting of Indian restaurant owners and local community members, who are being harassed both online and in person. Several incidents of physical altercations and confrontations have already occurred, leading to an increased sense of insecurity among the Indian diaspora.
Local Authorities and Police Allegedly Complicit in Harassment Campaigns
The situation is being further exacerbated by what some members of the Indian community perceive as complicity from local police and administrative authorities. It is alleged that some law enforcement officers are either sympathetic to the Khalistani cause or unwilling to take decisive action against the protesters. As a result, many Indians in Canada now fear that the authorities may not provide adequate protection, making it more difficult for them to report incidents of harassment or violence.
Indian Professionals and Families Consider Leaving Canada for Safety
For many within the Indian community, the rising tide of hostility has created a palpable sense of fear and uncertainty. Arpit Tiwari, a software engineer who has lived in Canada since 2017, shared his concern with News18, stating that he has never witnessed an environment so hostile. He explained that many Indian families are now considering returning to India, selling properties, and abandoning their businesses to ensure their safety. The widespread anxiety is fueling a sense of distrust towards local law enforcement and Canadian authorities, who are seen as ineffective or indifferent in the face of growing separatist violence.
Fears of Escalation as End-of-Year Approaches
Indian intelligence agencies are particularly concerned that the situation will worsen by the end of 2024. With the continued support of extremist groups in Pakistan, the potential for violence is high, and many fear that it could soon lead to more organized attacks against the Indian community in Canada. Given the heightened tensions and the rising numbers of violent protests, the prospect of an even more dangerous environment for Indians seems increasingly likely.
As the community braces for potential violence, many are calling for stronger action from both the Canadian government and law enforcement agencies to protect their safety and prevent further escalation of Khalistan violence on Canadian soil.
