Former Canadian minister Ujjal Dosanjh has sharply criticised Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for his approach to Sikh extremism in Canada, describing him as an “idiot” both “sociologically and politically,” the National Post reported.
This criticism arose from Dosanjh’s belief that Trudeau prioritises identity politics over fostering shared Canadian values, which he argues is essential for a cohesive national identity.
“Trudeau, sociologically and politically, is an idiot, and you can actually quote me; I really don’t care,” Dosanjh stated to the outlet, criticising Trudeau’s lack of understanding of nation-building.
Regarding Canada-India relations, Dosanjh said Trudeau could foster better diplomatic ties by adopting a more humble approach, rather than making bold accusations. He suggested that a diplomatic reset is necessary, stating, “It’s just a matter of eating a bit of humble pie and saying, ‘Look, let’s start over again. India is a good friend.'”
This comes in the wake of rising tensions following Trudeau’s allegations of India’s involvement in the assassination of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, which India has categorically denied.
Reflecting on past interactions, Dosanjh recalled a debate with Trudeau during their time as MPs from 2008 to 2011.
He expressed frustration that Trudeau sided with Khalistani supporters during discussions about identity and religion, suggesting that this has contributed to a divisive environment.
He claimed that a significant portion of Canada’s Sikh population, estimated to be around 8,00,000, does not support the Khalistan movement but remains silent due to fears of violence from extremists.
“A silent majority of the Sikhs do not want to have anything to do with Khalistan,” he noted, adding that intimidation within temples stifles dissent against Khalistani views.
Dosanjh attributes the increasing Khalistani influence in Canada to Trudeau’s misunderstanding of the Sikh community’s secular nature. He warned that this has led to a dangerous conflation in public perception, where all Sikhs are equated with Khalistani sentiments. “Canadians now equate Khalistanis with Sikhs, as if we are all Khalistanis if we’re Sikhs,” he lamented.
In his reflections, Dosanjh also highlighted the importance of understanding the complexities surrounding the Sikh diaspora in Canada and the historical context of the Khalistan movement, which has seen varying degrees of support since its inception in the 1930s.