Canadian federal courts have dismissed appeals from at least 30 individuals who sought to avoid removal or secure asylum based on their alleged support for the Khalistan movement.
According to Federal court records confirmed by the Hindustan Times, the claimants argued they would face persecution in India due to ties with the secessionist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) or participation in the so-called Khalistan Referendum.
It is reported that one of the latest cases involved Pardeep Singh, who challenged a removal order in Toronto. His application included affidavits from family members and social media evidence of support for Khalistan. Federal Court Judge dismissed the motion on September 6, noting Singh’s expired spousal work permit and the timing of his refugee claim as key factors.
Similarly, in Vancouver, Federal Justice rejected Kanwaljit Kaur’s appeal, ruling that her claims of persecution due to Khalistan-related activity were “speculative.” The judge noted that holding a voter card for the Khalistan Referendum was insufficient to demonstrate that she was a target for Indian authorities.
In Montreal, a Federal Judge upheld the denial of asylum for an Indian couple who amended their original refugee application to include support for Khalistan, presenting protest photos and voter registration cards from SFJ.
In all cases, it is reported that the court deemed their arguments “disingenuous,” affirming earlier Refugee Appeal Division and Refugee Protection Division decisions.
Meanwhile, in Australia, authorities are tackling a growing problem of bogus asylum claims.
The Australia Tiday reported yesterday that a multi-agency operation has uncovered seven scam migration agents operating in Victoria and Queensland who exploited vulnerable visa applicants, facilitating over 470 Protection visa applications and charging up to $1.42 million.
In these cases, as per the official statement, investigators have also identified potential links to organised crime syndicates.
“If you engage in this sort of unlawful activity, chances are you have been reported and we are coming for you. Don’t do it. We simply will not tolerate scammers taking advantage of the hopes and fears of vulnerable people,” said Commander John Taylor of Home Affairs’ Field Operations and Sponsoring Monitoring Branch.
Additionally, authorities have warned that applicants themselves risk heavy fines and jail time if they knowingly provide false information.
Lavinia Mitchell, Assistant Secretary of the Citizenship and Humanitarian Policy Branch, advised applicants to seek help only from registered migration agents or free legal providers, while Emily Winch, Senior Director of the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority, urged verification of agents before paying for services.
These measures aim to protect the integrity of the visa system and ensure fair access for genuine asylum seekers.
Australian authorities have not confirmed how many bogus claims relate to the Khalistan movement, but investigations continue.
Support our Journalism
No-nonsense journalism. No paywalls. Whether you’re in Australia, the UK, Canada, the USA, or India, you can support The Australia Today by taking a paid subscription via Patreon or donating via PayPal — and help keep honest, fearless journalism alive.
