Straight Talk | Khalistan is a Farce: Sikhs In Canada Need To Reject This Divisive Agenda

Canada has emerged as the epicenter of Khalistani separatism on the global stage. The indications of this have been evident for a considerable time. Yet, the recent events unfolding in Brampton have deeply unsettled Hindus and Indians worldwide, not just in Canada and India. Equally perturbed are numerous Sikhs, including myself, who perceive the Khalistan movement as a deceptive scheme driven by extremist factions within the community, backed by Pakistan’s ISI and influential entities throughout Western nations.

The concept of the ‘Khalistan card’ has become a means for Western powers to exert pressure on India as it ambitiously pursues its goal of advancing into a developed nation. This development concerns several influential nations globally, grappling with a rapidly evolving global landscape, prompting them to take drastic measures to curb India’s ascent.

Let’s not delve into the geopolitics for the moment. The recent assault on Hindus within their place of worship in Brampton by Khalistanis signifies a disturbing development. Many of us had thought that the scars of the violent and ominous Khalistani era belonged to the past century. Nevertheless, Khalistanis in Canada, with support from influential interest groups, are vigorously attempting to resuscitate the separatist cause. Faced with little success in Punjab, these Khalistanis are now striving to demonstrate their relevance in the streets of Canada and various Western urban centers.

It is just as regrettable, if not more so, that everyday Sikhs in Canada who do not support the extreme beliefs of Khalistanis are remaining silent observers. It is clear that not all Canadian Sikhs support the divisive idea of carving out Khalistan. Any rational individual would not propose Punjab’s separation from India, only to create a vulnerable nation that Pakistan would target immediately. So, why aren’t Canadian Sikhs opposing extremist factions?

In response to your query, the situation can be clarified. Khalistanis are portrayed as a group of renegades, frequently resorting to aggression, opting to align themselves more with criminals than with upstanding members of society. This vocal faction consists of individuals radicalized to the point of being consumed by animosity toward India. Khalistanis have progressed to a stage where they are embracing the falsehoods they propagate.

Engaging in debates with them or attempting to impart reason to their thinking often proves to be a fruitless endeavor – one fraught with considerable risks as well. Khalistanis are effectively establishing an Islamist environment within the Sikh populace, particularly in Canada. This essentially results in ordinary Sikhs’ expressions of dissent or critique being construed as anti-panthic propaganda.

In past conflicts, Hindus and Sikhs have consistently united against common adversaries, such as Islamic rule in India and later British colonialism. It’s disheartening to see these two communities, who have historically stood together, now at odds in Canada.

The ongoing tensions between the two communities stem mainly from the historical distortions inflicted during the British rule in India. Hindu and Sikh texts were inaccurately translated during that period, which continues to impact their relationship. Regrettably, even after seventy years of independence, neither group has taken substantial steps towards decolonizing their narratives. This inertia is proving to be significantly detrimental in the present time.

Despite setbacks, there is still hope. The enduring connection between Hindus and Sikhs has withstood the trials of time. Even amid tumultuous periods, rational voices have consistently emerged victorious. In India, a significant number of Sikhs understand that the Khalistan narrative is merely a strategic ploy aimed at disrupting their harmony not only with Hindus but also with the broader Indian government.

Sikhs need to ensure that the narrative surrounding their community isn’t overtaken by Khalistanis. It’s crucial for ordinary Sikhs to raise their voices and distance themselves from such elements. The responsibility to eliminate these influences lies within the community itself, especially in Canada where Khalistanis have gained traction. Failure to address this issue could exacerbate tensions and harm the relationship between Hindus and Sikhs globally, not just in Canada.

In no scenario should we permit the Khalistanis to triumph in creating a division between Sikhs and Hindus. The past century has witnessed an excessive amount of bloodshed, loss of lives, and desecration of sacred sites for us to remain passive observers to the current events unfolding in Canada and throughout the Western Hemisphere. It is imperative for Sikhs to confront the extremist elements from within and take back control without delay.