United Nations rights experts have urged Canada to take all feasible measures to protect Sikh activist Moninder Singh, who has received multiple warnings of credible threats to his life from Canadian authorities since 2022. In a letter dated June 3 and made public in August, the experts raised allegations of foreign intimidation and reprisals against Singh. They urged Canada to accelerate investigations, hold perpetrators accountable, and ensure adequate remedy to victims.
Background and Context
Moninder Singh, a Canadian national, is part of a fringe group advocating for an independent Sikh state called Khalistan. The Khalistan campaign has historical roots and has been a contentious issue between India and several Western nations with significant Sikh populations. Singh has accused India of targeting Sikh activists abroad, a charge India denies.
UN Experts' Concerns
The UN experts expressed concern that the threats against Singh are part of a broader pattern of transnational repression by Indian authorities against Sikh activists. They emphasized the need for Canada to protect Singh and similarly situated individuals. A copy of the letter was also sent to the Indian government.
Singh's Response
Singh told AFP that the letter was 'a stark reminder of how far the Indian state is willing to go to silence Sikh voices advocating for self-determination.' He vowed not to be intimidated into silence, asserting that his advocacy is rooted in international law and human rights principles.
