Kapil Sharma's Cafe Faces Ideological Attack

In Surrey, British Columbia, comedian Kapil Sharma's cafe became the target of threats and attacks. These incidents, occurring shortly after the cafe's opening, brought to light the tensions between pro-Khalistan groups and those perceived to support Indian political ideologies. The situation raises questions about safety, expression, and allegiance in a foreign land.

Cafe's Opening and Attacks

Kapil Sharma's Kaps Cafe opened its doors in Surrey, Canada, on July 4th. Within a week, the establishment was targeted. There were reports of shots being fired, and the incidents caused damage to the cafe's windows and structure, though fortunately, no injuries were reported among the staff who were present. These attacks marked the beginning of a series of events that would draw attention to the cafe and the controversies surrounding it. The Surrey Police Service (SPS) initiated an investigation to probe the matter. The attacks were later claimed by alleged gangsters affiliated with the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, which added another layer of complexity to the unfolding situation.

Pannun's Stance and Threats

Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a Khalistani activist, played a central role in escalating the situation. Pannun declared that Kapil Sharma's Kaps Cafe had become a 'symbol of Modi's violent Hindutva ideology,' linking it to the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The pro-Khalistan group, Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), echoed this sentiment. Their statements positioned the cafe as a battleground for ideological conflicts. The SFJ issued a warning to Sharma, urging him to 'wrap up or speak up,' indicating a demand for him to clarify his stance. Pannun further issued a loyalty test, suggesting Sharma's choices were 'Canada or India,' and the outcome could impact the cafe's operations. The restaurant reopened early this month after it was targeted on July 10 and August 7.

Modi's Hindutva Ideology

The accusations directed at Kapil Sharma's cafe hinged on the alleged connection with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'violent Hindutva ideology.' This phrase was frequently used by Pannun and the SFJ to portray the cafe as an extension of Indian political influence and values. The attacks were framed as a response to this perceived influence, aiming to challenge and undermine it. This ideological framing transformed the cafe into a target of political significance. The group said the Khalistan Referendum is a testament that it stands by the ballot and not bullet, but Modi’s India continues to “export bullets and assassins to silence the voice of Punjab’s freedom.”