Two Attacks, One Message: Stop Indian Films

Khalistani Radicals Disrupt Indian Film Screenings – In a shocking turn of events, a cinema in Ontario, Canada, became the target of two violent attacks within a week. On 25 September and again on 2 October 2025, Khalistani radicals attempted to halt the screening of Indian films by setting fire and opening gunfire at the theatre entrance. The incidents have sparked global concern and raised questions about freedom of expression and transnational extremism.

The first attack involved masked individuals pouring flammable liquid from red gas cans and trying to ignite a fire. Fortunately, the flames were contained outside the building, causing only moderate damage. The second incident was more alarming — a heavy-built man dressed in black fired multiple shots at the cinema doors in the early hours of the morning.

SFJ’s Pannun Labels ‘Made in India’ a Political Weapon

Following the attacks, the designated terror group Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) released a statement demanding a ban on all Indian films in Canada. Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, SFJ’s chief, claimed that the “Made in India” label is no longer a cultural symbol but a political tool used by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government.

“Every screening and every product stamped ‘Made in India’ carries the imprint of a violent ideology that is driving India toward a Hindutva totalitarian state,” Pannun said. He warned that allowing Indian films and products into Canadian markets equates to permitting propaganda that normalizes violence against pro-Khalistan Sikhs.

Cinema Halts Indian Films Amid Safety Fears

The CEO of the affected cinema, Jeff Knoll, confirmed that the attacks were directly linked to the screening of South Asian films. For the safety of staff and patrons, the theatre has temporarily suspended all Indian movie screenings, including popular titles like Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1 and They Call Him OG.

“We cannot risk the lives of our employees and guests,” Knoll stated. “Until we receive assurance from law enforcement and community leaders, Indian films will not be shown at our venue.” The decision has disappointed many fans of Indian cinema in Canada, who now face a cultural void due to extremist threats.

India and Canada Strengthen Counter-Terrorism Ties

In response to the attacks and rising transnational threats, India and Canada recently held National Security Advisor-level talks. The discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in counter-terrorism, intelligence sharing, and combating organized crime.

Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs, emphasized the urgency of global collaboration. “Transnational organized crime is a particular concern to both countries. All nations must come together to fight this menace,” he said.

Canadian authorities, including Halton Regional Police, are treating both incidents as targeted attacks. Investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of Khalistani extremist involvement and their links to the cinema’s programming choices.

Cultural Freedom vs Political Extremism: What’s at Stake?

The Ontario cinema attacks have reignited debates about cultural freedom, political extremism, and the role of diaspora communities in shaping international narratives. While Indian films have long served as a bridge between cultures, their screening is now being politicized by radical groups.

Experts warn that such incidents could lead to increased polarization and mistrust between communities. “Cinema is a reflection of society, not a weapon of ideology,” said a Toronto-based film critic. “Banning films only silences voices and fuels division.”

As investigations continue and diplomatic efforts intensify, the world watches closely. Will Canada uphold its commitment to free expression, or will fear-driven censorship become the new norm? Only time will tell.