WSO

On July 7, 2026, Operation Hardball marked a major development as the FBI and RCMP charged jailed Indian gangster Lawrence Bishnoi with ordering the 2023 assassination of Sikh leader Bhai Hardeep Singh Nijjar. But charging the alleged hitman is not the end of the story. The RCMP and Canada’s National Security Advisor have previously stated that the Bishnoi network was used by the Indian state to target Sikhs. Those findings have never been withdrawn. The trigger may have been identified. The question of who pulled the strings remains.

Sunil Kumar Sharma, a devoted and tireless servant of the Sikh Panth, passed away at the age of 62 after battling a serious illness. He stood shoulder to shoulder with the families of Sikh martyrs, supported those who continued the struggle, and remained a steadfast friend to countless members of the Panthic community. Throughout his life, he was known for his unwavering commitment to Sikh causes and community service. Whether it was organizing blood donation drives, participating in seminars, supporting peaceful demonstrations, or helping coordinate community gatherings, Sunil Sharma was always at the forefront. He dedicated himself to the Panth around the clock, carrying its concerns and working selflessly for its welfare. A resident of Delta, British Columbia, he had made Canada his home for nearly three decades. Originally from Ludhiana, Punjab, he had strong ties to Punjab Agricultural University, where much of his early life and background were rooted. His passing is a significant loss to the Panthic community. He will be remembered for his dedication, humility, and lifelong commitment to serving others. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his family and loved ones find strength during this difficult time.

The minds behind this criminal network need to be called out Watch this interview with WSO Legal Counsel Balpreet Singh on Global News discussing this week’s crackdown on the Lawrence Bishnoi gang and other listed terrorist organizations as part of Operation Hardball. While these enforcement actions are a welcome step, Balpreet raises a critical question: what role did the Government of India play, given the multiple allegations and evidence that have linked Indian officials to transnational repression in Canada? As Canada moves forward with trade talks, these questions appear to have become politically inconvenient but accountability cannot be set aside for diplomacy.⁩

In light of renewed interest in the life of Bhai Jaswant Singh Khalra following the controversy surrounding the release of the film Satluj and its ban in India, we are sharing this look back at a historic moment from 1995. In June 1995, WSO invited Bhai Jaswant Singh Khalra to Canada to share his message across the country. In a special event organized by WSO in Canada's Parliament in Ottawa, he addressed MPs and the Sikh community directly. Khalra courageously exposed evidence of illegal cremations and enforced disappearances in Punjab, bringing international attention to one of the darkest chapters in recent human rights history. Even while in Canada, there were concerns that attempts would be made to prevent him from speaking. Just months after returning to Punjab, Bhai Khalra was abducted outside his home. More than thirty years later, his courage continues to inspire our struggle. Swipe through to learn more about Bhai Khalra's historic visit to Ottawa.⁩

⁨Repost from 2025: The Butcher vs. The Valiant | Part 2 - The Story of Punjab 1995 This video tells the story of two opposing figures in one of Punjab’s darkest chapter: K.P.S. Gill, the state’s powerful, controversial police chief, and Bhai Jaswant Singh Khalra, the human rights defender who exposed the murders of 25,000 Sikhs orchestrated by the Indian government. In 1995, Khalra’s fearless pursuit of truth led to his abduction and disappearance - an atrocity that exposed the brutality of state repression. Through archival footage, we revisit a battle between fear and courage, silence and truth, oppression and justice. Bhai Khalra talked about being a single candle which would fight the darkness. With his inspiration, countless more candles have been lit and will continue to burn until the darkness is finally dispelled.

PRESS RELEASE: WSO WELCOMES ACTION AGAINST BISHNOI GANG; CALLS FOR FULL TRANSPARENCY ON INDIA’S ROLE WSO welcomes today’s coordinated law enforcement operation by authorities in the United States, Canada and Europe targeting the Lawrence Bishnoi terrorist network and other India-based transnational organized crime groups. Questions remain, however, about the role the Government of India played in using this network for violent criminal activities in Canada. WSO President Danish Singh said: “How was Lawrence Bishnoi able to operate an international criminal enterprise while in Indian custody? What role did Indian government officials play in enabling or facilitating these activities? What role did Home Minister Amit Shah play, as described by senior Canadian officials? Canadians deserve answers to these questions. Accountability cannot end with those who carried out these crimes. It must extend to anyone who enabled, directed or facilitated them.” Read the full press release: worldsikh.org/wso_welcomes_a…

As Global News has previously reported, police believe Lawrence Bishnoi and his North American lieutenant, former Brampton resident Goldy Brar, were behind the Nijjar assassination. Police also believe that Bishnoi was in turn acting for the government of India.

The Conversation India Is Afraid Of A recent News18 story attempted to portray the WSO and Sikh Federation’s Khalistan Community Discussions as something nefarious and dangerous. Their reaction revealed just how threatening they find the simple act of Sikhs openly discussing Khalistan and envisioning what Sikh sovereignty could look like. India relies on disinformation and false narratives. Our discussions were open, thoughtful conversations about the future of Sikh sovereignty, grounded in Sikh values, principles, and aspirations. We will continue these conversations with confidence and without fear.⁩

The Butcher vs. The Valiant | Part 2 - The Story of Punjab 1995 On September 6th, we honour the sacrifice of Shaheed Bhai Jaswant Singh Khalra and his pursuit to truth and seva. This video tells the story of two opposing figures in one of Punjab’s darkest chapter: K.P.S. Gill, the state’s powerful, controversial police chief, and Bhai Jaswant Singh Khalra, the human rights defender who exposed the murders of 25,000 Sikhs orchestrated by the Indian government. In 1995, Khalra’s fearless pursuit of truth led to his abduction and disappearance - an atrocity that exposed the brutality of state repression. Through archival footage, we revisit a battle between fear and courage, silence and truth, oppression and justice. Bhai Khalra talked about being a single candle which would fight the darkness. With his inspiration, countless more candles have been lit and will continue to burn until the darkness is finally dispelled.

“Exposing India’s Brutality in Punjab: The Khalra Story | Part 1 - The Disappeared” delves into the harrowing story of human rights abuses in Punjab, India, during the 1980s and 1990s. It centers on the courageous efforts of Bhai Jaswant Singh Khalra, who uncovered evidence of mass disappearances and extrajudicial killings in the region. Through archival footage, interviews and expert analysis, this video exposes the systemic violations committed by Indian authorities and highlights Bhai Khalra’s work and methodology which ultimately led to his own disappearance.

On July 2 in Toronto, a Sikh man was violently assaulted with a metal pole in an unprovoked attack while anti-Sikh discriminatory remarks were made. The victim, who was targeted because of their religious attire, sustained minor head injuries. The suspect has since been arrested and remains in police custody with police calling it "suspected hate-motivated". Incidents like this are a reminder that anti-Sikh hate continues to impact our communities across Canada. WSO will continue to monitor this case closely and advocate for accountability. If you or someone you know has experienced hate or discrimination, we encourage you to report it: worldsikh.org/reporthate

It was a pleasure to meet with representatives from the @WorldSikhOrg for a discussion on the experiences of the Sikh community in Ontario and the valuable contributions they make to our province. Thank you for a productive conversation. I appreciate the valuable insights shared and look forward to continuing our dialogue.

Across Ontario, BC, and Alberta, WSO collaborated with Sikh Federation to host a series of community discussions centered around Khalistan. These events brought together community leaders, professionals, advocates, students, and engaged community members for thoughtful conversations about what Khalistan means today, the values and principles that should shape a future Sikh homeland, and the importance of informed dialogue within our community. Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to these important conversations. We look forward to continuing these discussions with communities across the country.

Watch this report from @OMNIpunjabi covering the recent advocacy win allowing Sikhs to wear their kirpan at FIFA World Cup 2026 venues in Canada. FIFA has confirmed that Sikhs will be permitted to attend FIFA-controlled venues in Toronto and Vancouver while wearing the kirpan, provided that the individual is wearing the kirpan alongside the other four Sikh articles of faith, the kirpan blade does not exceed 10 cm in length, the kirpan remains secured in its sheath, is attached to a fabric belt (gatra), and is worn under clothing at all times. FIFA has advised us that venue staff and security personnel in Toronto and Vancouver have been informed of this accommodation. Full video: youtu.be/Fu3xDI0vGpk?si…

⁨Join us for a discussion on the issues shaping the Sikh community in Canada and around the world. WSO Legal Counsel Balpreet Singh will provide insights on recent developments, recent advocacy victories, ongoing legal challenges and the work being done to protect Sikh rights and freedoms. 📅 Sunday, June 28 2026 ⏰ 10:30am 📍 Singh Sabha Gurdwara Sahib, Surrey, BC Whether you’re interested in community advocacy, current affairs, or the future of the Panth, this is an opportunity to stay informed and engaged. We look forward to seeing you there!⁩⁩

“Adding to the crisis, the Indian government has used the Bishnoi gang to advance its interests in Canada through violence, the RCMP has alleged. As part of its fight against Canadian Sikhs who support independence for India’s Punjab, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government allegedly hired Bishnoi.”

The World Sikh Organization of Canada is pleased to confirm that, following our advocacy efforts, Sikhs wearing the kirpan will be accommodated at FIFA World Cup 2026 venues in Canada. FIFA has confirmed that Sikhs will be permitted to attend FIFA-controlled venues in Toronto and Vancouver while wearing the kirpan, provided that the individual is wearing the kirpan alongside the other four Sikh articles of faith, the kirpan blade does not exceed 10 cm in length, the kirpan remains secured in its sheath, is attached to a fabric belt (gatra), and is worn under clothing at all times. FIFA has advised us that venue staff and security personnel in Toronto and Vancouver have been informed of this accommodation. We would like to thank the members of the Sikh Caucus, as well as representatives at the municipal, provincial, and federal levels of government, for their assistance and support in helping to secure this accommodation for Sikh spectators. We thank @FIFAcom, the host cities, and all those involved for their cooperation in reaching this positive outcome.

On June 4, Senator Paula Simons cited testimony from WSO Legal Counsel Balpreet Singh during her speech in the Senate Chamber on Bill C-9. Senator Simons noted that Balpreet Singh’s testimony had “resonated with me ever since” highlighting his concerns that Bill C-9 could undermine lawful political expression. She referenced his warning that advocacy related to Khalistan has already been the target of coordinated Indian disinformation campaigns, raising concerns about how the legislation could be applied in practice. Balpreet Singh's Testimony: youtu.be/eGJOVjr1wuc?si…

Repost from 2024: WSO presents Echoes of June 1984: From Punjab to Canadian Shores In June 1984, the Government of India launched a military assault against the heart of the Sikh panth, Sri Darbar Sahib and Akal Takht Sahib in Amritsar. This was a traumatic shock to Sikhs across the world, including in Canada. The effects of these events on the diaspora were palpable. Rallies and protests took place across Canada in major cities and in front of Indian consulates. The World Sikh Organization was born. The emotions are as raw today as they were 41 years ago. Indian foreign interference in Canadian Sikh affairs has continued unabated since then. Never Forget 1984.