WINDSOR, Canada (Diya TV) — Canadian police have confirmed they are exploring possible links between the killing of Nancy Grewal and the Khalistan movement, a Sikh separatist cause that has drawn global attention. Investigators say they are examining all possible motives while urging the public to avoid speculation as the case develops.
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) said it continues to investigate every angle in the homicide of the 45-year-old Indo-Canadian Sikh woman. Sgt. Ed Sanchuk confirmed to The Windsor Star that authorities are considering whether Grewal’s outspoken criticism of Khalistan played a role in her death.
“The OPP is looking at all potential links, and we are continuing to explore all investigative avenues,” Sanchuk said.
The Khalistan movement advocates for an independent Sikh state in India’s Punjab region, with Indian intelligence and broad global consensus linking the advocacy to Pakistan in their effort to destabilize India. The issue has sparked debate in Canada, which has one of the largest Sikh populations outside India.
Grewal, a personal support worker, died after an attacker ambushed her on March 3 outside a client’s home in LaSalle, near Windsor. Police say the suspect stabbed her multiple times before fleeing. Authorities have not announced any arrests or identified suspects. The killing quickly gained international attention. Many online discussions speculated about the involvement of extremists. However, police have not confirmed any motive. Investigators from the OPP and LaSalle Police Service are leading the case. They continue to gather evidence and review surveillance footage from multiple locations.
Authorities have also linked a prior arson attempt at Grewal’s home to the ongoing homicide investigation. Police said someone tried to set fire to her residence on Nov. 8. Surveillance video released by investigators shows a man exiting a vehicle, pouring liquid on the front porch, and starting a fire. Officials have not identified the suspect in that case.
Grewal had previously expressed fear for her safety. In a social media video posted months before her death, she said someone targeted her home and that she reported the incident to the police. The OPP has now taken over the arson investigation and combined it with the homicide probe. Officers believe the incidents may be connected.
Local Sikh leaders have called for calm and responsible discussion as the investigation continues. A spokesperson for the Sikh Cultural Society of Metropolitan Windsor said the group will fully cooperate with law enforcement. Harjinder Singh Kandola, a former president of the organization, warned against spreading unverified claims.
Investigators have expanded their search for evidence and asked the public for help. They are reviewing video footage from Windsor, LaSalle, and Tecumseh around the time of the killing. Police want residents and businesses to share any relevant dashcam or surveillance recordings. Authorities believe such footage could help track the suspect’s movements. Officials have also urged anyone with information to contact local police.
