Popular Indian comedian Kapil Sharma’s newly opened restaurant, Kap’s Cafe, in Surrey, British Columbia, was struck by gunfire early Thursday morning, triggering alarm across fans and the Indian diaspora. Authorities have linked the attack to Khalistani extremist groups, who have also issued threats to Sharma, accusing him of promoting Hindutva ideology under the guise of business.

According to the Surrey Police Service (SPS), shots were fired at the café around 1:50 AM. Several bullet holes were found in the windows, while staff members were reportedly inside at the time. No injuries were reported. Officers arrived at the scene shortly after but made no arrests. “It was apparent that shots had been fired, damaging the property while staff were still inside,” an SPS spokesperson said. The incident is under investigation, with extremist group involvement being a key angle.

Terror Links: SFJ and Babbar Khalsa Claim Responsibility

In a chilling development, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, designated terrorist and founder of the banned separatist outfit Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), released a video threatening Kapil Sharma directly. Accusing Sharma of spreading “violent Hindutva ideology” through his Canadian business ventures, Pannun stated, “Take your blood money back to Hindustan. Canada is not your playground.” He alleged that Kap’s Cafe was part of a larger strategy to export Hindutva narratives overseas.

The threat was echoed by Harjit Singh Laddi, a known member of Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), who took responsibility for the shooting via a social media post. He claimed the attack was retaliation for allegedly offensive content from The Kapil Sharma Show, where a character dressed in Nihang Sikh attire was mocked. Laddi insisted multiple demands for an apology went unanswered.

Both SFJ and BKI are designated terrorist organizations under India’s Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), and Pannun faces over 100 cases under investigation by India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA).

Cafe Responds, Kapil Sharma Yet to Issue Statement

In the wake of the attack, Kap’s Cafe released a statement on Instagram, saying the team is “processing the shock” but is committed to continuing their mission. “We started Kap’s Cafe with dreams of spreading warmth, community, and cheer. To have violence cross that dream is devastating — but we are not giving up,” the statement read. They also thanked Surrey and Delta Police for their swift response and expressed gratitude to the local community for their support.

Kapil Sharma, who inaugurated the café on July 4, has yet to comment publicly on the incident.

Meanwhile, Surrey Police have acknowledged the social media claims by Laddi but clarified that these allegations have not been independently verified. “There is no suspect description at this time,” the spokesperson said, urging anyone with information or CCTV footage to come forward.