Indian-Origin MP Calls for Calm as Khalistani Leader Threatens Hindu Canadians
In a recent development that has sparked worry and fear among Hindu Canadians, Gurpatwant Singh Pannu, a designated Khalistani terrorist in India and leader of the outlawed Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), has threatened and urged Indo-Canadian Hindus to leave the country. This threat has prompted Indian-origin MP Chandra Arya to call for calm and vigilance within the community.
MP Arya, who hails from Karnataka, expressed his concern for the safety and well-being of Hindu Canadians and urged them to stay calm and remain vigilant. He emphasized the importance of reporting any incidents of Hinduphobia to local law enforcement agencies. Arya also highlighted that Pannu’s intention is to provoke a reaction from Hindu Canadians and divide the Hindu and Sikh communities in Canada, despite the strong familial, social, and cultural ties that bind them.
Arya made it clear that the vast majority of Sikh Canadians do not support the Khalistan movement, although they may not publicly condemn it due to various reasons. He stressed the need to understand that Hindu and Sikh Canadians share a deep connection, and attempts to create division should be resisted.
The MP described the threats by Pannu as a direct attack on Hindu Canadians and an escalation of recent attacks on Hindu temples and celebrations following the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi by terrorists. Arya expressed his dismay at the glorification of terrorism and hate crimes, questioning how such acts are allowed under the guise of freedom of speech and expression in a country that upholds high moral values and the rule of law.
Arya further pointed out the double standards, highlighting the outrage that would follow if a white supremacist attacked any racialized group, while Pannu seems to have been able to get away with his hate crime. He drew attention to the fact that Hindu Canadians are considered soft targets due to their low profile and suggested that their success might be difficult for anti-Hindu elements to digest.
Drawing from his own experiences, Arya mentioned the repeated attacks he has faced for raising a flag with the Hindu religious symbol Aum on the Canadian Parliament Hill. Notably, two well-organized groups claiming to represent their faiths have targeted Hindu-Canadian community leaders, Hindu organizations, and even himself.
The Hindu community has a long history in Canada, with members immigrating from various countries over the past century. According to the 2021 Census, Hindus make up around 2.3% of the total Canadian population, showing a significant increase from 1.0% in 2001. November is celebrated as Hindu Heritage Month in Canada, adding significance to MP Arya’s strong statement.
The article concludes with the announcement of upcoming protests by Pannu’s SFJ outside Indian consulates and a forthcoming referendum in Canada regarding the responsibility of Indian High Commissioner Sanjay Verma in the death of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
In conclusion, MP Arya’s call for calm and vigilance amidst the threats faced by Hindu Canadians and the crucial reminder to report incidents of Hinduphobia aims to protect the community and preserve unity among diverse communities in Canada.
