Vancouver, British Columbia - Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), a Khalistani separatist group, has vowed to “siege” the Indian Consulate in Vancouver, sharing a poster that directly targets India’s newly appointed High Commissioner to Canada, Sanjay kumar Verma. The threat, issued on September 17, 2023, comes amidst heightened tensions following the June 18, 2023, killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a prominent Khalistani leader, in surrey, British Columbia.
The SFJ’s proclamation escalates the ongoing diplomatic dispute between india and Canada,which has included reciprocal expulsions of diplomats and travel advisories. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau publicly stated on September 18, 2023, that there were “credible allegations” linking agents of the Indian government to Nijjar’s assassination – accusations India has vehemently denied. The SFJ’s planned protest aims to pressure india regarding the inquiry into Nijjar’s death and broader demands for a separate Sikh state. The poster shared by the group features a photograph of High Commissioner Verma with a red “X” across it, alongside text declaring the consulate will be “besieged.”
The Royal Canadian mounted Police (RCMP) are reportedly monitoring the situation and assessing the credibility of the threat. The Indian Consulate in Vancouver has not yet issued a public statement regarding the SFJ’s announcement,but sources indicate increased security measures are being implemented. Sikhs for Justice has a history of organizing protests and referendums advocating for Khalistan, and has been designated a terrorist organization by India. The group’s actions are closely watched by security agencies in both Canada and the United States.