As the anniversary of the Air India Flight 182 bombing approaches, Chandra Arya, a Canadian lawmaker of Indian origin, has issued a stern warning about the re-emergence of Sikh Separatist extremism in Canada. The bombing, which occurred 39 years ago on June 23, 1985, resulted in the deaths of 329 people, making it the deadliest terrorist attack in Canadian history. Arya’s cautionary address in Parliament highlighted the continued threat posed by the Khalistan movement and its impact on the Hindu Canadian community.
During his speech, Arya emphasized the significance of June 23, which is observed as the National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism in Canada. He recounted the tragic events of 1985 when Air India Flight 182 was destroyed mid-air by a bomb planted by Canadian-based Sikh Separatists. The bombing killed all 329 passengers and crew members, marking a dark chapter in both Canadian and Indian history.
Arya expressed his dismay over recent incidents involving Khalistani supporters in Canada. He noted that there have been demonstrations celebrating the assassination of former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, which he sees as a sign that the violent ideology behind the Air India bombing is still present in Canada.
Arya warned that these actions indicate a resurgence of “dark forces” that promote violence and hate, which could lead to more troubling times ahead.
Arya stressed the importance of awareness among Canadians about the persistent threat of Sikh Separatist ideology. He urged his fellow citizens to recognize that the extremist views responsible for the 1985 terrorist attack still exist within a small segment of the population. Arya’s comments were made in the context of preparations for a memorial service at Queen’s Park on June 23, organized by the Consulate General of India in Toronto. The event aims to honor the victims of the Air India tragedy and reaffirm India’s strong stance against terrorism.
Arya’s remarks also come at a time of strained relations between India and Canada. Tensions escalated last year when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau suggested that India might have been involved in the killing of Sikh Separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India has denied these allegations, calling them baseless and demanding proof from the Canadian government.
As Canada prepares to commemorate the 39th anniversary of the Air India Flight 182 bombing, Arya’s warnings serve as a reminder of the enduring threat of extremism. His call for vigilance and awareness is particularly poignant in light of recent incidents that suggest the Sikh Separatist movement is gaining momentum once again. The upcoming memorial service will not only honor the victims but also highlight the ongoing need to combat terrorism and reject the glorification of violent ideologies.
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