Comedian Kapil Sharma’s newly opened restaurant, Kap’s Cafe, in Surrey, Canada, was allegedly targeted in a violent gunfire attack late Wednesday night. According to preliminary reports, at least nine rounds were allegedly fired at the premises while staff members were inside, though thankfully no injuries have been reported.
Surrey Police have cordoned off the area and launched a detailed investigation into the incident. An individual named Harjeet Singh Laddi, who is allegedly affiliated with the banned extremist group Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) and is on India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) most wanted list, has claimed responsibility online, reportedly citing offence over comments made on Sharma’s television show.
Kapil Sharma has yet to release an official statement, while the café management has expressed shock but affirmed their determination to remain open and resilient.
Gunfire Allegedly Shakes Surrey’s South Asian Community
The alleged attack took place just before 2 a.m. at Kap’s Cafe, located on 120th Street, a popular hub for the Indian diaspora in Surrey. Witnesses and staff reported hearing multiple gunshots, with police confirming that at least eight bullet holes were allegedly found in the café’s windows, along with shattered glass and minor damage to neighbouring properties.
Those inside the café at the time were unharmed, but the incident has left the local community deeply unsettled. Surrey Police spokesperson Staff Sgt. Lindsey Houghton stated, “The investigation is in its early stages, and we are actively gathering forensic evidence to establish the facts.
No motive has been confirmed yet.” The café issued a statement saying, “To have violence intersect with our dream is heartbreaking. We are processing this shock but are committed to standing strong. Kap’s Cafe will remain a place of warmth, community, and hope.”
Alleged Extremist Claims and Broader Context
Responsibility for the shooting was allegedly claimed by Harjeet Singh Laddi, who is reportedly based in Germany and linked to Babbar Khalsa International, a proscribed militant organisation. Laddi allegedly posted on social media that the attack was in retaliation for remarks made about Nihang Sikhs on Kapil Sharma’s television show, demanding a public apology.
However, law enforcement agencies have not yet verified the authenticity of these claims or established a direct connection between the alleged shooting and the television content. Sources close to Sharma have indicated that the café property may be owned by a third party, adding complexity to the investigation.
This incident is part of a worrying pattern of alleged attacks targeting South Asian-owned businesses in Surrey in recent months, raising concerns over the influence of extremist groups abroad impacting local communities. Authorities continue to urge caution and vigilance while pursuing leads.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Violence, especially when fuelled by extremist ideologies, threatens the very foundation of multicultural societies built on peace, empathy, and coexistence. The Logical Indian strongly condemns this alleged attack on Kapil Sharma’s café and stands in solidarity with the victims and the wider community.
While it is crucial that law enforcement agencies pursue justice swiftly and impartially, it is equally important that communities resist the urge to respond with fear or division.
Our strength lies in dialogue, kindness, and mutual respect. In these challenging times, how can we foster resilience and promote harmony within our diverse communities?
