New Delhi took a decisive step on Monday by summoning the Canadian Deputy High Commissioner following the raising of separatist slogans on ‘Khalistan’ at an event addressed by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. This action underscores India’s serious concerns regarding the impact of such incidents on bilateral relations and their potential to foster a “climate of violence”.
Pro khalistan slogans made in the presence of Canada PM Justin Trudeau at Khalsa Day Celebrations in Sunday. pic.twitter.com/I1aaqhA6uY
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) April 29, 2024
The Ministry of External Affairs issued a stern statement expressing the Government of India’s deep concern and strong protest against the disturbing actions permitted to occur unchecked at the event. The statement emphasized the recurring trend of Canada allowing political space for separatism, extremism, and violence.
Highlighting the detrimental effects of these expressions, the statement emphasized their impact not only on India-Canada relations but also on fostering an environment of violence and criminality within Canada itself, to the detriment of its citizens.
Video footage released by Canada-based CPAC TV depicted chants of ‘Khalistan Zindabad’ growing louder as Prime Minister Trudeau approached the stage for his address marking Khalsa Day. The same slogans resurfaced when Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre commenced his speech. Notable figures such as New Democratic Party leader Jagmeet Singh and Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow were also in attendance.
The event, which drew thousands of attendees to downtown Toronto, took place on Sunday, marking one of the city’s largest annual gatherings. Trudeau, in his address, reiterated his commitment to safeguarding the rights and freedoms of Sikhs in Canada and pledged to defend the community against hatred and discrimination. His statements come in the backdrop of India’s objections to his allegations last year regarding the killing of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
India has vehemently refuted Canada’s accusations as “absurd and motivated,” further accusing Ottawa of harboring Sikh separatists. This tension between the two countries intensified following Trudeau’s remarks, leading India to temporarily suspend visa issuance to Canadian citizens, which was later resumed after several weeks.
India has consistently emphasized its primary concern with Canada revolving around the space afforded to separatists, terrorists, and anti-India elements within the country. This issue remains a core point of contention between the two nations, further exemplified by India’s call for Canada to scale down its diplomatic presence in the country, a demand met with the withdrawal of 41 diplomats and their family members from India.
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