Indo-canadian groups seek action over attacks for farm law support

TORONTO: Over two dozen Indocanadian organisations have asked the Canadian minister of public safety to take action against “coordinated attacks” for being perceived as pro-india or critical of the protests against India’s new farm laws.

The letter was sent on Saturday to Bill Blair, the minister for public safety and emergency preparedness. It said it appeared that “separatist elements seeking to create ‘Khalistan’ are deeply embedded and engaged in the anti-legislation agitations in

Canada and the attacks on Indocanadians has taken a sectarian turn.” Sent by the umbrella organisation, National Alliance of Indo-canadians, the letter was signed by representatives of 28 community bodies.

The letter added, “This is troubling as Canada’s worst incident of terrorism, bombing of Air India flight 182, the Kanishka, also emerged from the Khalistan movement in the country. Even more problematic is how elements supporting separatism are indulging in Hinduphobia under the guise of protesting farm laws.”

The signatories sought “effective

action” from Public Safety Canada, “reassure Hindu-canadians, who are fearful of their future due to this recent phenomenon.”

Incidents of threats, including those of sexual violence against female members of families, occurred in Canada, including the Greater Toronto Area, Metro Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton. Multiple police complaints have been filed by victims of these attacks. In one instance, volunteers who helped organise a ‘Tiranga Rally’ in Vancouver faced not just threatening calls but had protesters turning up outside their office.