Ontario [Canada]: In a landmark gathering aimed at confronting extremism and foreign interference, the Canada India Foundation (CIF) and The Alliance to Fight Secessionism and International Khalistani Terrorism (TAFSIK) hosted the “United Against Extremism” National Security Conference on Sunday at Paramount EventSpace in Woodbridge, Ontario.
The one-day conference brought together over 200 participants, including journalists, policymakers, community leaders, and security experts, all focused on tackling the growing threats of extremist ideologies and transnational radicalism in Canada’s multicultural democracy.
🔍 Key Highlights:
- The conference revisited the 1985 Air India Flight 182 bombing, Canada’s deadliest terror attack, urging for its inclusion in school curriculums and the creation of a memorial learning centre.
- Sanjay Lazar, who lost his family in the Kanishka bombing, said:
“It was not just an act of terrorism—it was a brutal attack on Canadian values. We owe it to the victims and future generations to remember and learn.”
🧠 Threats in Focus:
Panelists raised serious concerns about the emergence of radical Khalistani elements, Islamist networks, and far-left agitators operating openly in Canada.
Canadian journalist Danial Bordman was forthright:
“We are dealing with Muslim Brotherhood affiliates, ISI-backed radicals, and far-left extremists. They operate freely while our institutions hesitate to act.”
Another journalist, Wyatt Claypool, added:
“We’re stuck in an era of moral confusion. Canada under the Liberals often sides against allies like India and Israel. That needs to change.”
🇨🇦 Political Voices Weigh In:
Ujjal Dosanjh, former federal Health Minister, noted:
“This is the first major public platform to address extremism within the Indo-Canadian community. Drug trafficking, illegal immigration, and extremism are now interwoven challenges.”
Ritesh Malik, CIF founder, stressed the non-partisan motive behind the event:
“We are here not to target communities, but to protect Canada. We need our leaders to act—not with political correctness but with courage.”
⚖️ Law and Policy Discussions:
- The controversial Bill 63 came under criticism for silencing moderate voices while enabling radicals to exploit legal protections.
- Calls were made for:
- Stronger immigration checks
- Enhanced intelligence sharing
- More transparency and accountability from media and law enforcement
📢 Community Impact:
The “Human Cost of Terrorism” panel featured testimonies from Jewish and Indo-Canadian citizens who face ongoing threats. One speaker cited a recent shooting at a Jewish school, calling it a stark reminder of security lapses and rising hate crimes.
Guneet Singh, a community participant, summed it up:
“This is not an Indian issue. It’s a Canadian issue. Whether it’s illegal immigration or extremism, it affects all of us.”
📜 Outcome & Next Steps:
The conference concluded with a pledge to compile a detailed report of findings and submit recommendations to Canadian legislators and security agencies.
Ritesh Malik’s closing message was clear:
“The time for silence is over. We must reclaim Canada’s values and protect them for our children.”
The event marked a bold step in galvanising civil society against extremist threats and sparking overdue dialogue on national security, multiculturalism, and civic responsibility in Canada.