Diljit Dosanjh reacts to Khalistan controversy, says he is targeted from both sides
PTC Web Desk: Punjabi singer and actor Diljit Dosanjh has said that he is facing criticism from both sides amid growing controversy around his concerts in Canada and the US.
A video from his recent show in Calgary surfaced online a day before his concert in Winnipeg. During the concert, Diljit spoke about the backlash he has been receiving from different groups.
He told the audience that in India some people call him a Khalistani, while certain groups in Canada label him as “India Wala”. He added that he often feels confused about where he belongs, but believes he is following the right path.
The controversy appears to have intensified after Diljit reacted to pro-Khalistan supporters waving flags during his Aura 2026 concert in Calgary on Friday. Several videos shared on social media showed heated arguments between protesters and people attending the show.
Addressing the crowd during the concert, the singer said people could continue showing flags, but warned that anyone creating disturbance inside the venue would be removed. His remarks received loud cheers from the audience.
After the concert, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun released a video saying that Sikhs for Justice would oppose Diljit’s upcoming concerts in the United States.
Following the statement, some pro-Khalistan supporters called for a boycott of the singer’s shows and announced plans to stage protests outside concert venues.
Meanwhile, Canadian Security Intelligence Service, in a public report released on Friday, described a small but active network of Khalistani extremist groups in Canada as a continuing national security concern.
The report said some individuals linked to these networks were allegedly involved in collecting and diverting funds to support violent activities in India. It also noted that a fringe section continued to use Canadian soil to promote, finance and plan violence.
- With inputs from agencies