Results for: Pro-Khalistan

Pro-Khalistan elements in Canada displayed an effigy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in chains and a cage at a Khalsa Day parade in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) on Sunday, leading to heightened anti-India provocations. The float was promoted by the secessionist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), which linked it to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s recent comments on Canada’s commitment to justice and citizen protection. The parade also featured participants waving Khalistan pennants and shouting separatist slogans. SFJ has announced plans to hold a ‘Citizens Court of Canada’ in Vancouver on the anniversary of pro-Khalistan figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s death, accusing Canada and the US of condoning repression of pro-Khalistan Sikhs by India. Last year, a float depicting the assassination of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi was displayed at a Shaheedi Diwas event in Brampton, marking the anniversary of Operation Bluestar. These incidents underscore the ongoing tensions between India and pro-Khalistan elements in Canada and raise concerns about the potential for further escalations.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau affirmed Canada’s adherence to the rule of law and independent justice system following the arrest of three Indian nationals linked to the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar dismissed Trudeau’s criticisms as “internal politics,” expressing concerns over pro-Khalistan elements influencing Canadian politics. The arrests of Karan Brar, Kamalpreet Singh, and Karanpreet Singh mark a significant development in the ongoing investigation, with authorities hinting at possible further arrests. Assistant Commissioner David Teboul of the RCMP confirmed investigations into connections between the detained trio and Indian authorities. Despite India’s extradition requests for 25 pro-Khalistan individuals, Canada has not yet acted, further straining diplomatic relations between the two nations.