ISI Using 'Soft Power' Networks To Push Khalistan Agenda In Canada: Intel Sources | Exclusive

Last Updated:July 01, 2026, 21:20 IST

The intelligence assessment also warns that Canada risks evolving into a safe haven for transnational separatist activity if such networks continue to expand unchecked

Pakistan’s intelligence agency, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), is increasingly relying on “soft power" networks to sustain and expand the Khalistan movement among the Sikh diaspora in Canada, according to top intelligence sources. The strategy, sources claim, marks a shift from direct support to militant outfits towards leveraging diaspora organisations and media platforms to build political influence, mobilise supporters and keep the separatist narrative alive overseas.

According to intelligence inputs accessed by CNN-News18, Baaz News, a media platform that sources describe as being closely aligned with the World Sikh Organization (WSO), has significantly stepped up content and events promoting narratives centred around Khalistan and Sikh political identity in recent months. Intelligence officials believe this reflects a broader effort to strengthen transnational support for the separatist cause within Canada’s Sikh diaspora.

Sources allege that the WSO has been organising community events across Canadian provinces that present Khalistan as a potential future Sikh homeland while discussing its proposed values and governance principles. Intelligence officials say the messaging seeks to encourage Canadian Sikhs to maintain strong political and emotional ties to the Khalistan movement, including support through advocacy and fundraising from Canada.

Officials further claim that the strategy aims to foster what they describe as “parallel identities", where sections of the diaspora prioritise overseas separatist politics over integration into Canadian civic life. According to the intelligence assessment, such efforts risk replacing the long-standing image of Canadian Sikhs as a successful, law-abiding and entrepreneurial community with narratives driven by historical grievances and separatist politics.

The intelligence assessment also warns that Canada risks evolving into a safe haven for transnational separatist activity if such networks continue to expand unchecked. While the territorial demand is directed at India, officials argue that the consequences could extend to Canada’s own internal security and social harmony by encouraging grievance-based mobilisation and increasing the potential for youth radicalisation.

Indian intelligence agencies have long accused Pakistan’s ISI of backing Khalistani extremist groups. According to the sources, the agency has historically provided funding, training, logistical support and safe havens to organisations, including Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), the International Sikh Youth Federation (ISYF) and the Khalistan Commando Force (KCF). The latest assessment claims that while militant support structures continue, greater emphasis is now being placed on political advocacy, fundraising, propaganda and diaspora mobilisation through non-violent platforms and influence networks.

Sources allege that organisations such as the WSO serve as part of this broader ecosystem by playing a political and soft-power role, while media platforms like Baaz News amplify messaging aimed at sustaining support for the Khalistan movement among overseas Sikh communities. Intelligence officials claim this ecosystem is also intended to generate diplomatic pressure on both India and Canada.

According to the intelligence sources, the recent increase in community outreach and media activity should serve as a wake-up call for Canadian authorities. They argue that if Canada continues to be perceived as a base for fundraising and mobilisation linked to overseas separatist movements, it could not only strain bilateral ties with India but also affect Canada’s international reputation and domestic social cohesion.

About the Author

Manoj Gupta

Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18

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