Toronto-based Punjabi journalist Joginder Bassi, known for his comedic style of journalism on the popular Bassi Show, has received a death threat via a message from a Dubai phone number. The threat, sent by an unidentified individual, warned Bassi that his “end is near” and referred to him as an “Indian spy.” Following this, Bassi’s team lodged a complaint with the Ontario police in Canada, and investigations are underway.
The threat appears to have been triggered by a video Bassi posted on his YouTube channel, in which he condemned a group of Khalistan supporters who insulted the Indian flag in Canada. In the incident, these individuals tore down the Indian tricolor and stomped on it while chanting pro-Khalistan slogans. Bassi, during his radio show, harshly criticized those involved, stating that insulting the Indian flag was akin to disrespecting their motherland.
Bassi further emphasized that many of these individuals have settled in Canada but their roots remain in India. He argued that disrespecting the flag was an affront to their heritage. Recently, Bassi had also reported on his show about a Khalistani supporter, Gursevak Singh, who was allegedly involved in extortion activities in Canada.
This is not the first time Bassi has been targeted. In September 2021, his home in Canada was fired upon, though he and his family were unharmed. Bassi splits his time between Canada and India, where his family resides in Jalandhar, Punjab. In light of these threats, Bassi has also communicated with senior officials of the Punjab Police to ensure his safety during future visits to India.
Following the recent death threat, Ontario police have initiated an investigation into the matter. Additionally, Bassi has reached out to authorities in India to ensure his and his family’s safety when traveling to the country. Punjab Police have assured him of security during his visits to India.