Two restaurant owners in Saskatchewan are facing serious immigration-related charges after allegations that they mistreated foreign workers last year. The case highlights how the province is trying to protect temporary workers from unfair treatment under immigration and labour laws.
The couple, Vikram Singh and Harinder Sachdeva, are accused of breaking provincial rules under the Foreign Worker Recruitment and Immigration Services Act (FWRISA) and the Immigration Services Act. The charges relate to work at Taste of Battlefords in North Battleford and Rick’s Place in Humboldt between April and July 2024.
According to the Government of Saskatchewan, both Singh and Sachdeva face counts that include charging workers illegal fees for employment, misrepresenting job terms such as wage, duties, length of work and benefits, and threatening deportation without lawful reason. These accusations also include taking unfair advantage of foreign nationals’ trust or lack of experience.
Sachdeva, who said in a media interview that Singh is her husband, strongly denied the allegations. She told reporters she did not charge workers any fees or threaten them, and that she plans to fight the charges in court. “Nothing is proven yet,” she said.
The charges are part of the province’s effort to enforce laws designed to protect foreign workers. Saskatchewan’s Program Compliance Branch investigates complaints and ensures employers and recruiters follow the rules under the immigration acts. The branch also helps workers report concerns and learns about their rights.
Foreign workers in Canada have legal protections. For example, if a temporary worker faces abuse or is at risk of mistreatment, they can apply for an open work permit that lets them work for any employer in the country. This rule helps workers leave jobs where they feel unsafe or exploited.
It is important to note that these are alleged offences and have not been proven in court. Charges simply mean authorities believe there is enough evidence to bring the case forward; the accused are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
This case follows another recent provincial charge involving immigration services without a licence, showing an increased focus on protecting workers and keeping the immigration system fair.
Workers who believe they have been mistreated are encouraged to contact the Program Compliance Branch confidentially for help and guidance.
