India strongly condemned pro-Khalistan activists in Canada for displaying an effigy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in chains during a parade, urging the Justin Trudeau government to halt its support for criminal and secessionist elements.
The Indian side emphasized concerns for the security of Indian diplomats in Canada, demanding that Ottawa ensure they can fulfil their duties without fear. This incident marks a further deterioration in bilateral relations, strained since Trudeau accused Indian government agents of involvement in the killing of a Khalistani leader last year.
Pro-Khalistan elements escalated their anti-India provocation by featuring an effigy of Modi in chains and a cage at a Khalsa Day parade in Malton, Greater Toronto Area. The parade also saw Khalistan flags and separatist slogans. India expressed strong concerns about the “violent imagery” used by extremist elements in Canada against its political leadership.
External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reiterated India’s call for Canada to stop providing a safe haven to criminal and secessionist elements, recalling a float depicting the assassination of former premier Indira Gandhi last year. India remains worried about the security of its diplomatic representatives in Canada and expects the government there to ensure their safety.
Jaiswal emphasized that democratic societies should not tolerate the celebration or glorification of violence, urging countries to uphold the rule of law. Despite India’s repeated calls for action against pro-Khalistan elements, Canadian officials have cited freedom of expression, frustrating Indian efforts.
The parade’s float was organized by Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), designated a terrorist entity by India, linking it to Trudeau’s recent comments on Canada’s commitment to protecting all citizens. Trudeau’s remarks followed the arrest of three Indian nationals in connection with the killing of pro-Khalistan leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The parade occurred after Trudeau addressed a similar event amid pro-Khalistan sentiments. SFJ plans a “Citizens Court of Canada” to probe Nijjar’s death, scheduled for June 18.