Canadian journalist alleges assault by pro-Khalistan activists at Vancouver rally
Vancouver: Independent Canadian journalist Mocha Bezirgan has alleged that he was physically assaulted and threatened by a group of pro-Khalistan activists while covering a rally in Vancouver on Sunday. Bezirgan claimed he was targeted for his independent reporting and past coverage of Khalistan-related demonstrations across multiple countries.
“It just happened two hours ago and I am still shaking,” Bezirgan wrote on X, describing the ordeal. “I was surrounded by multiple Khalistanis who acted like thugs. They surrounded me, threatened me, got physical with me, and grabbed my phone out of my hand.”
Soon as I turn the camera to their faces 4 out of the 5 turns away. If so proud of your thuggery, why hide? Student visa expired? https://t.co/NTuHK43hG4
— Mocha Bezirgan 🇨🇦 (@BezirganMocha) June 8, 2025
Bezirgan alleged that one of the attackers had a history of harassing him online, using “dehumanising language” for a prolonged period.
Known for covering Khalistan protests in Canada, the UK, US, and New Zealand, Bezirgan said his commitment to editorial independence has angered certain groups.
“These intimidation tactics won’t stop me or influence my editorial independence,” he said, sharing a video of the alleged incident.
In the clip, a man is seen confronting Bezirgan at close range.
“He refused to keep his distance from my face and began making threats of violence if I were to touch him,” Bezirgan narrated. “I kept walking away from him but his harassing behaviour wouldn’t stop. He followed me, mobilised others to interfere with my job, and kept appearing behind me despite being told to stay away.”
The journalist said the same individual had targeted him previously, and a police complaint had been filed at the time.
Bezirgan confirmed that he has filed another report following Sunday’s incident.
The episode comes amid a sharp downturn in India-Canada relations, fuelled by Ottawa’s handling of Khalistani extremism and its accusations implicating Indian officials.
New Delhi has repeatedly flagged concerns over Canada's perceived failure to act against separatist elements on its soil.
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