Witnesses in Nijjar case face Threats: Attorney General escalates case to BC Supreme Court for Direct Trial by Indictment
Vancouver, November 26, 2024: Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) has commended the Attorney General for invoking Section 577 of the Criminal Code to safeguard witnesses in the Hardeep Singh Nijjar assassination case. The decision to advance the case directly to the BC Supreme Court under "Direct Trial by Indictment" reflects the seriousness of ongoing threats to the witnesses involved. "This decisive action by the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) underscores the grave dangers posed to witnesses by Indian proxies
and agents operating within Canada," stated Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, SFJ General Counsel. "The assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar and subsequent threats to witnesses expose the pervasive influence of the Indian spy network, coordinated through consulates
in Toronto and Vancouver." SFJ continues to call for the closure of Indian diplomatic missions in Canada, emphasizing the urgent need to limit the activities of Indian diplomats to their consular duties alone to mitigate risks to Canadian citizens and residents.
Section 577 of the Criminal Code empowers the Attorney General or Deputy Attorney General to bypass a preliminary inquiry and proceed directly to trial. According to the Public Prosecution Service of Canada, this measure is reserved for circumstances where public interest is paramount. Key justifications include: - Witness Safety: Evidence suggested a reasonable basis to believe that the lives, safety, or security of witnesses, their families, or other justice system participants are at risk. Direct trial minimizes these risks by eliminating the preliminary inquiry stage. - Protection of Investigations: Direct indictment safeguards ongoing police operations and investigations critical to ensuring justice and public safety.
SFJ urged Canadian authorities to remain vigilant and take further actions to dismantle external threats jeopardizing Canada’s justice system and the safety of pro Khalistan Sikhs.