Just days before Canada hosts the high-profile G7 Summit, a Canadian investigative journalist has sounded the alarm over the growing threat of Khalistani extremism on Canadian soil. Mocha Bezirgan, known for his in-depth coverage of separatist activities across North America, was physically assaulted and threatened by Khalistan supporters while reporting at a Vancouver rally—an incident he says highlights a worrying trend of intimidation and radicalization.
What happened in Vancouver?
- Assault at rally: Bezirgan was covering a pro-Khalistan demonstration in downtown Vancouver when he was surrounded by a group of Khalistani supporters. He reported being physically threatened, having his phone snatched, and being blocked from leaving the area. The altercation was captured on video and shared widely on social media.
- Police response: Vancouver police intervened, instructing the primary harasser—who Bezirgan claims is a British national with a history of online threats—to cease his actions. Bezirgan later filed a statement with authorities, but no arrests have been announced so far.
- Pattern of intimidation: Bezirgan described the incident as part of a broader pattern, recalling a similar confrontation in March 2024 in Edmonton, where Khalistan supporters—some reportedly armed—protested outside the Indian High Commission.
Who are the main players?
- Sikhs for Justice (SFJ): Bezirgan identified SFJ as the primary organiser of the Vancouver rally and other similar events across Canada, the US, and even New Zealand. Local Gurudwaras reportedly help mobilise crowds, but the movement’s political cover comes from larger organisations.
- World Sikh Organization (WSO): The WSO, a prominent advocacy group, is accused by Bezirgan of providing political legitimacy to Khalistani activism. He noted that the organisation’s leadership includes current and former Canadian MPs and ministers, helping spread influence across Canadian institutions.
- Political connections: Bezirgan expressed concern over mainstream Canadian politicians—including Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, NDP, and Liberal MPs—sharing platforms with individuals linked to Khalistani extremism. He cited their presence at recent events alongside convicted figures and those glorifying violence against Indian leaders.
What are the extremists saying
- Glorification of violence: Bezirgan reported that at the Vancouver rally, participants openly celebrated the assassins of former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, calling themselves descendants of her killers and vowing to “ambush and kill” Indian Prime Minister Modi’s politics at the upcoming G7 Summit in Alberta.
- Martyrdom: The event also honoured individuals—such as Bibi Satnam Kaur and Bibi Waheguru Kaur—who were reportedly used as suicide bombers, raising further alarm over radicalization and the glorification of violence among youth.
G7 Summit ahead
- G7 Summit spotlight: The incident comes as Canada prepares to host the G7 Summit in Alberta, with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expected to attend. The World Sikh Organization has condemned Canadian PM Mark Carney’s decision to invite Modi, calling it a “betrayal of Sikh concerns” and triggering backlash from Sikh advocacy groups.
- Bilateral tensions: India has repeatedly raised concerns about the lack of action against Khalistani extremists in Canada, straining diplomatic relations. With a new Canadian government under Mark Carney, there were hopes for a reset, but recent events suggest tensions remain high.
Press freedom and public safety
- Targeting journalists: Bezirgan’s experience is not isolated. Other journalists in Canada have reported threats and violence when covering Khalistani extremism, prompting calls for greater protection of press freedom and stricter law enforcement.
- Call for accountability: Bezirgan and others urge Canadian politicians to distance themselves from extremist groups and to take a firm stance against those promoting violence and hate. He warned that ignoring these threats risks emboldening radicals and undermining both Canadian values and public safety.
Bottom line
The assault on Mocha Bezirgan underscores the growing challenge Canada faces in balancing free speech, minority rights, and national security as Khalistani extremism becomes more visible and vocal. With the world’s eyes on Canada ahead of the G7 Summit, the government faces renewed pressure to address these threats transparently and decisively.