Hardline groups to hold remembrance event in Canada

We believe that doing it nationally would have an impact on the whole thing. We would have one universal message as a Sikh nation of Canada. SUKHMINDER SINGH HANSRA, pro-Khalistan activist

TORONTO: Half-a-dozen hardline groups will gather at Parliament Hill, the seat of Canada’s Federal legislature, on Friday to mark the 33rd anniversary of Operation Bluestar in a revival of such an event after several years.

In what is described as 84 Remembrance Day for Sovereignty, these groups will collect on the front lawn of the iconic Ottawa landmark, which in itself is symbolic since it houses the Canadian House of Commons and the Senate.

The event is being held under the banner of the United Front of Sikhs (Canada). One of the principal organisers of the event, Sukhminder Singh Hansra, among the main proponents of Khalistan in the country, said, “We believe that doing it nationally would have an impact on the whole thing. We would have one universal message as a Sikh nation of Canada.”

Other groups listed as participants include Sikhs for Justice, Ontario Gurdwaras Committee, Ontario Sikhs and Gurdwaras Council and the British Columbia Sikh Council. It is being hosted by the Ottawa Sikh Society. In a statement announcing the event, organisers said it will “mark 33rd anniversary of Indian army assault on Sri Darbar Sahib also know as the Golden Temple, where thousands of Pilgrims were mercilessly killed by army.” That, of course, refers to Operation Bluestar, which took place on June 3, 1984.

While similar events are held each year at gurdwaras and within local communities, taking it to the Canadian capital is one more instance of the Khalistan movement gaining some momentum again in the country. “We came up the idea of the venue of Ottawa. The venue is perfect for a national gathering. We think that message will resonate,” Hansra said.

“We will be remembering those who sacrificed in 1984 and also the victims of 1984. Subsequently we believe sovereignty is what will resolve the situation. No point in asking for justice since the (Indian) Government has miserably failed (in this respect),” he added.

While the gathering will take place within the boundaries of the Parliament Hill complex, it will not be located within the buildings that comprise it. Hansra also said they had sent out invitations to all members of Parliament to attend the gathering but “haven’t got any confirmation yet.