A Calgary man faces potential immigration repercussions after pleading guilty to assaulting a local radio host. Dilpreet Singh, 29, admitted to assault causing bodily harm stemming from an attack on Rishi Kumar, known professionally as Rishi Nagar, on September 29, 2024.
The incident unfolded in the parking lot of the Rio Banquet Hall after an event. According to court testimony, Singh approached Kumar alongside another individual, confronting him about recent on-air commentary.
The root of the conflict lay in a broadcast from September 25th, where Kumar discussed a separate incident involving alleged extortion within Calgary’s South East Asian community. Specifically, he referenced a reported firearm display outside the Dashmesh Cultural Centre.
Singh wasn’t implicated in the firearms incident itself, but became deeply concerned when Kumar linked it to a peaceful protest held at Prairie Winds Park during the Nagar Kirtan festival in May 2022. He believed the connection was inaccurate and damaging.
The confrontation quickly escalated. Singh reportedly accused Kumar of improperly associating the firearms incident with the earlier protest. Kumar’s response was dismissive, triggering a swift and violent reaction.
Singh punched Kumar in the face, knocking off his glasses and shouting accusations in Punjabi about the inaccuracy of the broadcast. The assault continued as Kumar fell to the ground, sustaining further blows to the head.
The attack resulted in a severe blunt trauma injury to Kumar’s eye, necessitating cataract surgery. Medical professionals warned of potential future complications, including retinal detachment or the need for additional surgeries.
Following the assault, Kumar publicly denounced the attack as a threat to freedom of the press, vowing to continue his work undeterred. He made it clear the incident would not silence his voice.
Singh remains free while awaiting sentencing. His lawyer requested a pre-sentence report, highlighting the potential for immigration consequences as a result of the guilty plea. Sentencing submissions are expected after the Labour Day holiday.
