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Sunday, August 16, 2026

Canada Addresses UN Concerns Over Safety of Sikh Activist

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The Canadian government has communicated with the United Nations expressing ongoing concerns regarding the safety of Sikh activist Moninder Singh based in British Columbia. They have affirmed their commitment to thwarting any credible threats from foreign entities against individuals in Canada.

This communication follows a request from five UN special rapporteurs in June, seeking answers and action to prevent what they deemed as an immediate danger to Singh and his family. The rapporteurs urged Canada to expedite investigations into the allegations, hold accountable those responsible, and ensure the safety of all Sikhs in Canada.

In response, Canada emphasized its dedication to addressing all credible threats within its borders, particularly highlighting concerns for Moninder Singh and his family, as well as mourning the loss of his colleague, Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The government stated that it is actively working to detect, disrupt, and deter transnational repression both online and offline, while also enhancing protection and support for targeted individuals in Canada.

The Canadian authorities referenced a 2024 public statement from the RCMP warning of a threat posed by the government of India, uncovered through law enforcement investigations. Nonetheless, recent statements by the RCMP have sparked debates, suggesting contradictions to the allegations made in the 2024 warning against India.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration has consistently denied involvement in the assassination of Nijjar in 2023 or any violent activities in Canada. Canada’s communication to the UN cited the 2024 RCMP statement and a 2025 Canadian Security Intelligence Service report identifying India, China, Russia, Iran, and Pakistan as the primary perpetrators of foreign interference against Canada.

Moninder Singh welcomed Canada’s response to the UN, commending the acknowledgment of India as a perpetrator of transnational repression against Sikh activists. The federal government assured the UN that it continuously works to identify, assess, and address threats posed by foreign states, leveraging the full authority of the CSIS Act when necessary.

Canada also disclosed that it is aware of certain foreign states intimidating, harassing, and causing harm to individuals in Canada and their relatives abroad. When informed of threats, Canada utilizes the CSIS Act to respond, including investigating, advising, and disrupting threats against individuals on Canadian soil.

The RCMP, in collaboration with law enforcement partners, has identified several credible and imminent threats to life, leading to the issuance of ‘duty to warn’ notifications to members of the South Asian community, especially those associated with the pro-Khalistan movement. Moninder Singh has received four ‘duty to warn’ letters, with the latest one in February 2026 amid efforts to normalize diplomatic relations with India.

Moninder Singh criticized the ‘duty-to-warn’ system, stating that it only fulfills the obligation to warn individuals of potential threats without further support. He clarified that he does not seek a private security detail but urges the Canadian government to prevent foreign interference and violent activities on Canadian territory to ensure his safety.

While specific details of Canada’s response to the threat against Singh were not disclosed, the government emphasized that the RCMP may take various measures beyond the duty to warn to protect individuals facing such risks. Canada reiterated its collaboration with domestic and international security and intelligence partners to safeguard the Sikh community from foreign threats.

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