India-Canada row deepens divisions within Sikh diaspora: NAPA

The diplomatic row between India and Canada has deepened insecurities and divisions within the Sikh diaspora, the North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) said on Friday.

The rift between India and Canada follows the killing in June last year of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar for which Ottawa has blamed Indian government agents. India has denied the charge.

The killing and the subsequent diplomatic fallout have affected how Sikh immigrant families navigate their identities, political beliefs and social interactions, said NAPA executive director Satnam Singh Chahal.

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Tit-for-tat expulsions

India expelled six Canadian diplomats this week and withdrew its High Commissioner in Ottawa after dismissing allegations linking the envoy to a probe into the killing of Nijjar.

Chahal said in Chandigarh that the Nijjar murder had exacerbated pre-existing divides within the Sikh diaspora. Some community members see the Canadian government's stance as a legitimate defence of human rights while others consider it an affront to India's sovereignty, he said.

Division among Sikhs

This polarisation can lead to rifts in families and social circles, leading to heated discussions and estrangement, he said.

He said the involvement of intelligence agencies and accusations of political violence have instilled fear among many Sikhs, particularly those vocal about their political beliefs.

Ordinary families may worry about being targeted for their views, leading to a chilling effect on free expression within the community, Chahal said.

Dual identity crisis

Also, Sikh families may navigate complex relationships with non-Sikh neighbours and friends, he added.

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Chahal said many Sikhs were grappling with their dual identity -- as both Canadians and members of a historically marginalised group.

This struggle is compounded by external pressures and negative stereotypes that can arise from incidents like Nijjar's killing, which may overshadow their contributions to Canadian society, he said.

Pressure to take sides

He further said that within the diaspora, there can be significant pressure to take sides in the political narrative.

Activists may push for solidarity with Nijjar's cause while others may urge caution to maintain good relations with India, particularly for those with family ties back home, he said.