Sikh Militant Movements in Canada 1.

This article analyzes the historical formation of three of the most influential Sikh militant movements operating in Canada: the World Sikh Organization (WSO), the International Sikh Youth Federation (ISYF), and the Babbar Khalsa (BK). It traces the historical formation of these three factions, paying particular attention to the mandates and ideological philosophies to which these groups subscribe, as well as their current activities. In addition, it focuses on how the infighting over the mandates of the organizations, the tensions between diaspora and homeland politics, and conflicts within groups shape the character of the organizations. Although moderate members of Canada's Sikh community have regained ownership of gurdwaras, the existence of several militant Sikh movements has raised important security questions for Canadian authorities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]