A pioneering Indo-Canadian journalist and publisher who fearlessly exposed organized crime and corruption, ultimately paying the ultimate price for his courage.
Tara Singh Hayer was a renowned Indian-Canadian newspaper publisher and editor who made headlines for his outspoken criticism of fundamentalist violence and terrorism. As a key witness in the trial of the Air India Flight 182 bombing, Hayer's bravery in the face of danger would ultimately cost him his life.
Hayer was born on November 15, 1936, in Paddi Jagir, a small village in Punjab, India. He emigrated to Canada in 1970, where he worked in various professions, including mining, teaching, and truck driving, before establishing a community newspaper, the Indo-Canadian Times, in 1978.
The Indo-Canadian Times would go on to become the largest and oldest Punjabi-language weekly newspaper in Canada and the leading Punjabi-language newspaper in North America. Through his publication, Hayer often reported on the tensions between the Government of India and Sikhs, both in Canada and abroad, who promoted a separate country status for the Punjab area of India, known as Khalistan.
Hayer was a strong supporter of the Khalistan movement, but after the continuous terrorist acts by Khalistani extremists against Sikhs and non-Sikhs in Punjab and the later bombing of Air India Flight 182 in 1985, Hayer began to speak out against violence in the Sikh separatist movement. His courageous stance against terrorism and fundamentalism made him a target for extremist groups.
Hayer's newspaper, the Indo-Canadian Times, became a platform for him to express his views and expose the truth about the extremists' activities. He received numerous death threats, but he refused to be silenced. On November 18, 1998, Hayer's life was tragically cut short when he was assassinated outside his office in Surrey, British Columbia.
Tara Singh Hayer's murder sent shockwaves around the world, and he became the first journalist in Canada to be killed specifically for his work. His sacrifice has not been in vain, as his bravery has inspired countless journalists and human rights advocates to continue fighting for freedom of speech and expression.
Hayer's legacy extends beyond his journalistic endeavors. He was a devoted family man and is survived by his son, Dave Hayer, a former MLA in Surrey. His commitment to his community and his people has left an indelible mark on the world.
Tara Singh Hayer's story is a testament to the power of courage and conviction. His unwavering commitment to truth and justice has inspired generations, and his legacy will continue to inspire and empower journalists and human rights advocates around the world.
As we remember Hayer's life and sacrifice, we are reminded of the importance of protecting freedom of speech and expression. His bravery in the face of danger will never be forgotten, and his memory will continue to inspire us to stand up against injustice and oppression.
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