Indo-Canadian Organisation Calls for Action Against Sikh Group's Alleged Threat to Air India Flights

Toronto-based law firm, Brauti Thorning LLP, acting on behalf of the Hindu Forum Canada, has sent a letter to Canadian law enforcement authorities urging them to investigate and take appropriate action against the secessionist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ). The organization is accused of threatening Air India flights to and from Canada and other destinations. Peter Thorning, the lawyer of the firm, highlighted the need for such measures to maintain an inclusive and hate-free society in Canada.

The letter specifically mentions a video released by SFJ in September, where Hindus of Indian origin were told to leave Canada. This video was released shortly after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's statement that there were credible allegations of a potential link between Indian agents and the killing of Khalistani figure Gardeep Singh Nijjar. On November 9, it was reported that the RCMP and Federal Transport Ministry were investigating the threat to Air India flights, which was related to a video released by SFJ in which Gurpatwant Pannun, the general-counsel of the organization, warns Sikhs, twice, in Punjabi, "Don’t fly Air India after November 19, your lives may be in danger."

Pannun, however, denies any threat of violence to Air India, stating that he was merely calling for an economic boycott of the airline and that the threat narrative was meant to delegitimize the Khalistan Referendum being conducted by SFJ. The High Commission of India in Ottawa has already raised the issue with Canadian authorities, who have assured enhanced security measures for Air India flights at Canadian airports.

The request by the Hindu Forum Canada comes as an effort to ensure the safety and security of passengers traveling on Air India flights. As investigations into the matter continue, the Canadian law enforcement authorities are expected to take appropriate measures to address this alleged threat and maintain Canada's commitment to tolerance and inclusivity.