In recent years, Canada has become a beacon for international students seeking quality education and better opportunities. Among these students, a significant number hail from the Sikh community in India, particularly Punjab. While the promise of a brighter future draws them to Canadian shores, many Sikh female students encounter a harsh and unanticipated reality: exploitation and abuse within their own community.
This video is from Brampton, Ontario in Canada.
— Shri AdyaSingh (@ShriAdyaShri) May 18, 2024
This young girl was sexually harassed by the old Sikh man later confronted by the girls mother.
Please watch the video to understand the details. How this Senior Sikh sexual predator did to the girl.
The tough part is the other… pic.twitter.com/dj8PH4LySW
Brampton, Ontario, a city with a substantial Sikh population, has been spotlighted for the alarming treatment of these young women. Mayor Patrick Brown has expressed deep concern over the sexual exploitation and trafficking of international students, noting that such heinous acts occur “in plain sight” (Source: Global News). The perpetrators often exploit the vulnerabilities of these students, luring them with false promises of employment or affordable housing, only to coerce them into the sex trade.
4/ Brampton's Mayor, Patrick Brown, voiced concern that international students, particularly women, are facing sexual exploitation and trafficking. Many fall for false job offers and are coerced into unsafe work situations.#cdnpoli pic.twitter.com/Hl3e6SzOpp
— Ethan 🇨🇦 (@Ethan113554) December 30, 2024
The situation is exacerbated by unscrupulous landlords who take advantage of the students’ precarious circumstances. In one egregious instance, 18 female tenants were found living in a single housing unit under deplorable conditions (Source: TNC News). Such overcrowded and unsafe living situations not only violate basic human rights but also increase the risk of abuse and exploitation.
5/5 In #Brampton, 26 international students were found living in a single basement. Many are being sold into sex slavery and sent back to India in body bags. This is becoming a major humanitarian crisis.#cdnpoli pic.twitter.com/H4XNgdehZs
— Ethan 🇨🇦 (@Ethan113554) December 30, 2024
The involvement of Khalistani elements in the exploitation of Sikh female international students adds a troubling layer to this crisis. Some individuals and groups promoting Khalistani ideology have been accused of exploiting these students, using their precarious circumstances as leverage. Reports suggest that members of these factions, often seen as community leaders or activists waving Khalistan flags, have been implicated in trafficking and abuse. This exploitation not only undermines the safety and dignity of vulnerable students but also tarnishes the broader Sikh community’s reputation.
Cultural stigmas and fear of deportation further silence these victims. Under current visa regulations, international students found engaging in sex work, even under duress, face the threat of deportation. This punitive measure deters many from seeking help or reporting their abusers. Councillor Rowena Santos highlighted this issue, stating that many young women are coerced into dangerous situations and remain silent due to fear of deportation.
The exploitation of Sikh female students is not an isolated issue but part of a broader systemic problem. Investigations have uncovered that certain Canadian colleges have entered into agreements with entities involved in human trafficking networks. These institutions facilitate the entry of students who are then diverted into illegal activities, including sex work.
The exploitation of Sikh female students in Canada is an alarming issue that demands the urgent attention of both the Sikh community and the broader Canadian society. These young women arrive with dreams of a brighter future, yet some fall prey to unscrupulous individuals and systems that exploit their vulnerability. It is imperative for all stakeholders to work collectively to protect these students and create an environment where they can thrive and realize their aspirations. Furthermore, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau must prioritize the safety and well-being of all individuals over political expediency. Appeasing Khalistani elements for electoral gains undermines the safety and cohesion of Canadian society.
A firm and decisive crackdown on any threats to the safety of students and citizens is essential to uphold Canada’s values of justice and inclusivity. Safeguarding these students is not just a moral obligation but also a step towards ensuring the future prosperity of both the Sikh community and Canada as a whole.
The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of Khalsa Vox or its members.
