Khalistan Outfit Sikhs for Justice Threatens To Siege Indian Consulate In Vancouver

Sikhs for Justice has warned Indo-Canadians to steer clear of the Indian consulate in Vancouver on September 18, as they plan a siege in response to diplomatic tensions following accusations of Indian espionage.

Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), a banned Khalistani group, has threatened to "siege" the Indian consulate in Vancouver in Canada and advised Indo-Canadians to avoid visiting the consulate on September 18. The notice has been widely circulated, urging people to stay away from the consulate on that date.

The SFJ's notice also highlighted former Canadian PM Justin Trudeau's accusations against India. He alleged that Indian agents were involved in the assassination of Khalistani separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The SFJ accused Indian consulates of operating "spy networks" against those campaigning for a Khalistani referendum.

Accusations and Allegations

The SFJ has announced a 12-hour siege starting at 8 am local time on Thursday. They claim this action is to demand accountability for what they describe as Indian state-directed espionage and intimidation on Canadian soil. The notice specifically warns Indo-Canadians planning routine visits to choose another date.

A poster released by SFJ features India's High Commissioner-designate Dinesh Patnaik with a target over his face. The text below reads, "New face of India's Hindutva terror in Canada." This inflammatory message accompanies their call for action against the consulate.

Diplomatic Tensions

This threat comes over a year after diplomatic relations between India and Canada deteriorated. This followed Trudeau's allegations of Indian involvement in Nijjar's killing in 2023. India dismissed these claims as "absurd" and subsequently recalled six diplomats, including the High Commissioner, while expelling six Canadian diplomats.

In an effort to mend ties, both countries recently appointed new high commissioners: Dinesh K Patnaik for India and Christopher Cooter for Canada. Patnaik is currently serving as India's ambassador to Spain and will soon assume his role in Ottawa.

Security Concerns

The SFJ's notice also mentions that Inderjeet Gosal, a Khalistani leader and SFJ coordinator, was offered "witness protection" by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Gosal was arrested last year following a violent attack at a Hindu temple in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

As tensions rise with this looming threat, authorities are likely on high alert to ensure safety and security around the consulate premises during this period of unrest.