Tara Singh Hayer, a fearless Indo-Canadian journalist whose unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth led to his tragic assassination in Surrey, Canada, on November 18, 1998. As the editor and publisher of the Times Punjabi Weekly, Hayer’s investigative reporting played a pivotal role in exposing the involvement of Ajaib Singh Bagri and the extremist group Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) in the devastating 1985 Air India bombing that claimed the lives of 331 innocent people, including over 268 Canadians and 86 children.
Canadian politician Dave Hayer, son of the late journalist, spoke passionately at today’s commemorative event, highlighting the enduring legacy of his father’s dedication to freedom of expression and justice. “My father’s life was devoted to democracy, freedom of speech, and the freedom of the press to speak out against those who try to prevent these freedoms,” Dave Hayer stated. “He believed it was not right to remain silent while individuals worked against our freedoms because then they would win.”
Tara Singh Hayer’s courageous work did not go unnoticed. Throughout his career, he received numerous accolades recognizing his exceptional contributions to journalism and his relentless fight against terrorism. Among his honors were The Order of British Columbia, the Journalist Award from the Municipality of Surrey, the Commemorative Medal for the 125th Anniversary of Canada, and the International Award of Distinction for Journalism from the International Association of Punjabi Authors and Artists. Additionally, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) awarded him a Certificate of Appreciation for his invaluable work.
In 1999, the Canadian Journalists for Free Expression immortalized Hayer’s legacy by renaming its Press Freedom Award in his honor. The “Tara Singh Hayer Press Freedom Award” is bestowed annually to Canadian journalists who make significant contributions to promoting and reinforcing press freedom both in Canada and internationally. Further cementing his place in history, Hayer was inducted into the Canadian News Hall of Fame in 2000 as the first individual of non-English, non-French origin to receive this honor. The same year, he was recognized as one of the International Press Institute’s (IPI) 50 World Press Freedom Heroes, with the award presented by U.S. Senator Ted Kennedy in Boston—a momentous event accepted by Dave Hayer and Isabelle Martinez Hayer on behalf of the family.
Reflecting on his father’s enduring influence, Dave Hayer emphasized the critical need for unity in combating rising terrorism and violence. “Fear drives terrorism around the world, but we must stand united against it and fight back peacefully, as my father did through his newspaper and his words,” he asserted. “We must have the courage to keep speaking out and fighting for our freedoms and rights.”
Hayer’s legacy serves as a powerful reminder of the vital role that journalists play in upholding democracy and safeguarding human rights. His fearless pursuit of truth, even in the face of grave danger, continues to inspire current and future generations of journalists and activists. “Only by speaking out, being strong, and unafraid of threats can we win the fight against terrorism, hatred, and violence,” Dave Hayer concluded. “We all need to work together and remain united to achieve these goals, ensuring that our society remains free and that our rights are equally protected for all.”
As the community gathers to remember Tara Singh Hayer, his life and work stand as a testament to the enduring power of truth and the relentless pursuit of justice. His legacy not only honors the memory of those lost in the Air India bombing but also reinforces the importance of standing up against extremism and violence in all its forms.
