THE Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara Surrey Committee on Friday urged the Government of Canada to take further action “to prevent any further acts of violence or terrorism by the Indian regime against our citizens who exercise their constitutional rights,” adding that it is imperative to prioritize the safety and security of Canadians.
It also called for the expulsion of Indian High Commissioner Sanjay Kumar Verma.
In a statement, the committee said: “Prime Minister Trudeau’s recent confirmation that the Government of India is responsible for the heinous assassination of Shaheed (martyr) [Hardeep Singh] Nijjar [last June] is a pivotal step towards justice and accountability. The act of terrorism, perpetrated by the Government of India, directly challenged the sovereignty of Canada and threatened the principles that the Sikh community holds dear. We commend Prime Minister Trudeau for his courage and determination to confront the harsh reality of this act of terrorism, which challenges the sovereignty of Canada.”
Nijjar was the President of the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara Surrey as well as a “respected Sikh advocate for a sovereign Sikh homeland Khalistan,” the committee said.
It noted: “The Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara Surrey has tirelessly advocated for the truth surrounding Shaheed Nijjar’s assassination, and we have maintained, for months, that India and its agents/agencies operating within Canada bear responsibility for this. Prime Minister Trudeau’s decisive action in expelling an Indian diplomat from Canada is a commendable step towards ensuring justice for Shaheed Nijjar and upholding the sovereignty of Canada.”
The committee said: “We would also like to express our sincere appreciation to New Democratic Party leader Jagmeet Singh, Conservative Party of Canada leader Pierre Poilievre, Green Party of Canada leader Elizabeth May, and the Bloc Québécois MP for their steadfast support and solidarity on this issue. Your commitment to justice and the protection of fundamental rights exemplifies the spirit of unity that our nation needs.
“GNSG also extends its gratitude to Prime Minister Trudeau for promptly informing the United States of America, United Kingdom, and Australia about the grave threat posed by the Indian government’s actions and future potential threats emanating from India’s actions. The importance of international solidarity in addressing such issues cannot be overstated. Such international cooperation is vital in addressing this critical issue.
“We also commend the dedicated efforts of Canada’s security agencies and law enforcement in their ongoing investigations. Their commitment to ensuring justice prevails is essential in this challenging time.”
The committee said: “Shaheed Nijjar was assassinated for leading the Khalistan Referendum campaign in Canada and peacefully expressing his political opinion of Khalistan, which is protected under our Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. This right, which allows citizens to peacefully and rightfully express their political opinions, is the bedrock of a democratic society. Shaheed Nijjar’s tragic fate is a stark reminder that such rights must be preserved and safeguarded at all costs.”
The committee also noted: “Shaheed Nijjar advocated for human rights, and a tirelessly championed for the less privileged. He relentlessly campaigned for the release of unjustly held Sikh prisoners in India. He served as an inspiring figure, leading flood relief missions in BC, passionately advocating for Aboriginal rights, and aiding Afghan refugees in their settlement within British Columbia. Moreover, Shaheed Nijjar played a pivotal role in delivering essential supplies from the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara Surrey, including food and groceries, during the Covid pandemic. Shaheed Nijjar’s legacy will forever endure in our hearts, as he was both an advocate for human rights and a beacon of hope and compassion. His contributions to society, including his commitment to women’s rights and the fight against child abuse, serve as a testament to his unwavering commitment to a just and compassionate world.”
