Kapil Sharma’s café in Canada was attacked after Khalistani terrorist Harjit Singh Laddi threatened violence over alleged remarks on Nihang Sikhs
In a chilling escalation of extremist intimidation, comedian Kapil Sharma’s newly launched café – Kap’s Café, in Surrey, Canada, was attacked by gunfire just days after opening. The assault followed a public threat issued by Khalistani terrorist Harjit Singh Laddi, who demanded a public apology from Sharma over alleged remarks made on his comedy show. The incident has sparked outrage across India and Canada, raising urgent questions about diaspora safety, extremist networks, and the weaponization of religious sentiment.
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From Comedy to Crisis: What Sparked the Threat?
The controversy began with a social media post by Harjit Singh Laddi, a Germany-based operative of the banned Khalistani outfit Babbar Khalsa International (BKI). In the post, Laddi accused Kapil Sharma of mocking Nihang Sikhs, a revered warrior sect within Sikhism, during an episode of The Kapil Sharma Show. He claimed the remarks were offensive to Sikh spiritual traditions and demanded a public apology, warning of consequences if Sharma failed to comply.
“No religion or spiritual identity can be made fun of in the guise of comedy,” Laddi wrote.
“We tried to contact Kapil Sharma’s manager several times. All our calls were ignored. If he doesn’t apologise publicly…”
The threat was widely circulated online, but few anticipated the speed and severity with which it would be acted upon.
On July 9, 2025, just days after Sharma inaugurated Kap’s Café in Surrey, British Columbia, gunmen opened fire on the premises. CCTV footage captured a vehicle pulling up and firing multiple rounds at the café’s windows and facade. Nearby residential buildings were also hit, though no injuries were reported.
Canadian authorities quickly sealed off the area and launched a forensic investigation. Bullet casings were recovered, and surveillance footage is being analyzed to identify the attackers. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) confirmed that the shooting is being treated as a terror-linked incident, with Laddi’s claim of responsibility under active investigation.
Diaspora Under Siege: The Broader Pattern of Extremist Violence
This attack is not an isolated incident. It fits into a disturbing pattern of cross-border extremist intimidation targeting Indian-origin figures and businesses in Canada. Just last year, multiple South Asian business owners in Surrey reported extortion threats and were targeted in shootings when they refused to pay.
Harjit Singh Laddi is already wanted by India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) for his alleged role in the assassination of VHP leader Vikas Prabhakar in Punjab’s Rupnagar district in April 2024. He is accused of recruiting shooters, supplying weapons, and coordinating attacks from abroad.
Canadian intelligence agencies have acknowledged that Khalistani extremists continue to use Canada as a base for fundraising, propaganda, and planning violence, primarily aimed at India. The Indian government has repeatedly raised concerns about Ottawa’s failure to curb such activities, citing free speech protections as a loophole exploited by extremist groups.
The attack on Kapil Sharma’s café has reignited diplomatic tensions. Indian officials have called for decisive action from Canadian authorities, while diaspora leaders have expressed fear and frustration over the lack of security.
Silence, Solidarity & Security: What Comes Next?
As of now, Kapil Sharma has not issued a public statement. Sources close to the comedian say he is “shocked and deeply disturbed” by the incident. His wife, Ginni Chatrath, who co-owns the café, has reportedly increased security measures at the property.
The Indian community in Surrey has rallied in support, with local leaders organizing forums to address rising threats. Satish Kumar, president of the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir Temple, said:
“This is not just about Kapil Sharma. It’s about every Indian-origin entrepreneur who dares to succeed abroad. We cannot let fear win.”
Meanwhile, Canadian law enforcement is expanding its investigation to determine whether the attack was part of a broader extortion network or a targeted act of religious retaliation. No arrests have been made so far, but officials say “all leads are being pursued.”
The incident has also prompted renewed calls for international cooperation in tracking and dismantling extremist networks that operate across borders. With Laddi still at large and reportedly coordinating from Germany, pressure is mounting on European authorities to assist in his apprehension.
Final Thoughts: When Laughter Meets Extremism
Kapil Sharma built his career on laughter, a unifying force that transcends language, class, and culture. But this attack shows how even humour can become a battleground when religious sentiment is weaponized.
The shooting at Kap’s Café is a wake-up call. It’s a reminder that freedom of expression, diaspora safety, and counterterrorism must be balanced with vigilance and respect. And as Sharma’s fans await his response, one thing is clear:
The joke has gone too far, and now, it’s time for justice.
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