Reject Extremism, Protect Democracy and Equal Rights: Anil Shringi

By Anil Shringi

To Whom It May Concern,

I want to make it absolutely clear that my concerns are not directed against Sikhs, Hindus, or any religious or ethnic community. I have respect for every peaceful, law-abiding Canadian citizen, regardless of their faith or background.

My concern is with extremism, political intimidation, terrorism, and attempts by any ideological group to influence Canadian democratic institutions through pressure or threats.

There are two historical points that I believe must be remembered whenever this issue is discussed.

First, on June 23, 1985, Air India Flight 182 was bombed, killing 329 people, including innocent Canadian men, women, and children. The bombing was carried out by Sikh extremists associated with the Khalistani separatist movement. This tragedy must never be minimized, forgotten, or used as a political footnote. The victims and their families deserve to be remembered, and Canada must remain firmly opposed to terrorism and political violence.

Second, we must also remember the horrific 1984 anti-Sikh violence in India, in which thousands of innocent Sikhs were killed by the workers of Congress party of India following the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Those victims also deserve justice and remembrance. The actions of Congress party individuals or political workers responsible for those crimes must never be used to blame the entire Sikh community. Sikhs as a whole must not be collectively blamed for the actions of Congress party extremists, just as Hindus must not be collectively blamed for the actions of individuals.

These two tragedies demonstrate why Canada must apply one standard to everyone.

No extremist organization—regardless of its religion, ideology, nationality, or political objective—should be permitted to intimidate elected representatives, dictate government policy, glorify terrorism, or silence legitimate political and community voices.

If Canadian politicians are being pressured to prevent a peaceful and lawful visit by a religious or community leader, that pressure should be examined transparently. Canadian democracy belongs to all Canadians, not to any particular religious or ideological group.

We Hindus must also become more confident in responding to these issues. Our response should not be based on hatred, anger, or disrespect. It should be based on facts, history, democratic principles, and equal treatment under Canadian law.

Our message should be consistent:

We condemn terrorism.
We condemn political violence.
We condemn the killing of innocent people.
We condemn collective blame against any religious community.
We oppose political intimidation by extremist organizations.
And we support freedom of religion, freedom of expression, and democratic institutions for every Canadian.

These principles should guide our letters, public statements, meetings with elected representatives, and peaceful demonstrations.

Vande Mataram!