In a shocking escalation, the pro-Khalistan outfit Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) has issued a direct threat to Indian comedian and actor Kapil Sharma, declaring “Canada is not your playground,” just a day after gunshots were fired at his café in Surrey, British Columbia, reported The Times of India. The warning came via a video message from SFJ chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who accused Sharma of promoting “Modi-brand Hindutva ideology” on foreign soil.
Gunfire at Kap’s Café Raises Alarm
On the night of July 9, unknown assailants opened fire at Kap’s Café, a venture recently launched by Kapil Sharma in Surrey. Fortunately, no one was injured in the incident. The gunfire, which left the café riddled with bullet holes, has since been claimed by Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) terrorist Harjeet Singh Laddi, who is on India’s most-wanted list.
Canadian authorities, in coordination with Indian agencies, are now probing whether the attack was an act of intimidation linked to extremist agendas or a targeted warning to high-profile Indian personalities residing or investing abroad.
SFJ’s Video Warning to Sharma
In the threatening video, SFJ’s Pannun alleged that Kapil Sharma was using Canadian soil to “whitewash” what he claimed was India’s growing “Hindutva nationalism.” He accused Sharma of aligning with Indian government policies and warned him to stay away from promoting “Modi ideology” in Canada.
Pannun further implied that Sharma’s presence and ventures in Canada would not be tolerated by pro-Khalistan supporters, and that SFJ would consider further action if Sharma continued his activities.
This isn’t the first time SFJ has issued threats to Indian nationals or personalities abroad. The organization, which is banned in India, has a history of inflammatory rhetoric, especially since tensions escalated following the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada in 2023.
Security Tightened in Mumbai
In light of the café shooting and SFJ’s video message, security has been tightened around Kapil Sharma’s residence in Mumbai. Indian security agencies are treating the threat with the utmost seriousness and are coordinating with their Canadian counterparts to ensure the safety of Indian citizens overseas.
Mumbai Police has already initiated communication with Sharma’s team and has put surveillance measures in place around his known addresses.
Kapil Sharma Breaks Silence
While initially silent after the incident, Kapil Sharma eventually shared a message expressing shock over the shooting but made it clear that he had no intentions of backing down. “We are still processing the shock, but we are not giving up,” Sharma stated.
His close aides revealed that Sharma is deeply disturbed by the violence but committed to continuing with his international business ventures, including Kap’s Café in Surrey.
Diplomatic Tensions and Diaspora Fears
This latest episode adds fuel to the already strained diplomatic relations between India and Canada. The targeting of a prominent Indian celebrity in Canada is being viewed not just as an isolated act, but a warning sign for the broader Indian diaspora, many of whom are worried about their safety amid rising extremism and ideological confrontations overseas.
Indian community members in Canada have called for increased government protection, diplomatic engagement, and action against extremist groups that threaten peace and multicultural harmony.
What Comes Next?
Canadian law enforcement, including the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), is investigating the shooting as a criminal offence and is verifying the authenticity of the claim made by Harjeet Singh Laddi. Authorities are also reviewing surveillance footage and digital communications to trace the suspects involved in the incident.
Meanwhile, Indian intelligence sources are monitoring the activities of SFJ and affiliated networks, both online and through diplomatic channels. The Ministry of External Affairs is expected to issue a statement on the matter as it gains global attention.
Photo Credit: AajTak
For more trending stories click here
Follow us for latest updates:
