The establishment of a “Republic of Khalistan” within the premises of the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia, has sparked widespread controversy and concern. Set up by the Khalistani group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), the so-called “embassy” features prominent signage of its name and a yellow flag atop a white and blue structure. This initiative has reportedly received funding from the Government of British Columbia, coinciding with a $150,000 grant intended for the installation of an elevator at the gurdwara.
Political reactions have emerged, with Congress MP Gurjeet Singh Aujla urging India to address this issue with Canadian authorities due to the implications for the Sikh community. BJP leader Tarwinder Singh Marwaha expressed similar sentiments, cautioning that such actions by individuals abroad could undermine the Sikh community as a whole.
Concerns about the implications of this development are echoed by local leaders. Maninder Gill, head of a local radio station, has written to both Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Premier of British Columbia, David Eby. He criticized the gurdwara committee for, in his view, misusing public funds to foster division and extremism within the community. Gill stated that many visitors who come to the community center were shocked by the emergence of the Khalistan embassy, emphasizing its negative impact on those who have suffered due to past Khalistani violence.
Photographs shared by journalists depict individuals affiliated with this movement displaying Khalistani flags and political slogans, including images of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a key figure in the Khalistan Referendum campaign, who was assassinated earlier this year.
Meanwhile, Canadian authorities have acknowledged the presence of Khalistani extremism in Canada, stating that such individuals use the country as a base for promoting violence related to India. The situation has sparked a mix of reactions on social media, with some humorously questioning the “visa process” for this newly declared territory, while others call on Canada to take firmer action against such movements that appear to challenge India’s sovereignty.
This situation requires careful navigation, balancing free speech rights against the potential for inciting violence and discord in communities. It highlights the ongoing complexities of diaspora politics and the impact of transnational movements on domestic situations. As dialogue continues, it is crucial for all parties involved to seek resolutions that promote understanding and community harmony.