India’s Consulate General in Vancouver has sharply reminded the world of the tragic Air India Flight 182 bombing as the Canadian Parliament observed a moment of silence for Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a designated terrorist under India’s laws.
The consulate highlighted the 39th anniversary of the Air India tragedy on June 23, 2024, which claimed 329 lives, including 86 children, marking it as one of the worst terror-related air disasters. The bombing, attributed to Sikh militants retaliating against the 1984 Operation Bluestar at the Golden Temple, remains a poignant reminder of terrorism’s devastating impact.
A Memorial Service is scheduled at 1830 hrs on June 23, 2024 at the Air India Memorial at Stanley Park's Ceperley Playground area. @cgivancouver encourages members of the Indian Diaspora to join the event in a show of solidarity against terrorism. (3/3) @HCI_Ottawa pic.twitter.com/oQrr7ggomA
— India in Vancouver (@cgivancouver) June 18, 2024
Despite past apologies and recommendations following the Air India tragedy, India criticizes Canada for allegedly harboring sikh separatist elements and failing to adequately address terrorism concerns. Moreover, India has also cautioned its citizens in Canada due to rising anti-India sentiments and security threats.
The tension between India and Canada escalated after Nijjar’s alleged assassination in Surrey, British Columbia, last year. Despite Canada’s claims of Indian involvement, India vehemently denies these allegations and has asked the Canadian authorities to provide any source to prove their allegations, which they’ve failed to provide.
Amidst this backdrop, Canada’s Parliament observed a moment of silence marking Nijjar’s death anniversary, highlighting ongoing sensitivities in bilateral relations. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s recent remarks about aligning with India on major issues have been overshadowed by these controversies, straining bilateral relations.
India continues to emphasize its commitment to global counter-terrorism efforts and urges Canada to address the concerns over Sikh Separatism activities decisively.
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