'Actions Of Few Don't Represent Entire Community': Canada PM Trudeau On Khalistan Extremism

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau discussed the issue of pro-Khalistani protests in Canada during his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and emphasized Canada's commitment to defending freedom of expression, conscience, and peaceful protest while actively working to prevent violence and combat hatred. Speaking at a briefing on the sidelines of the G20 Summit, he underscored the importance of these values to Canada.

Trudeau also made it clear that the actions of a few individuals do not represent the entire Khalistani community or Canada as a whole. He recognized India as an incredibly important global economy and a crucial partner for Canada in addressing challenges like climate change and promoting growth and prosperity for their citizens.

The meeting between Trudeau and PM Modi took place during the G20 Summit, and they discussed a wide range of issues related to India-Canada relations across various sectors.

Sources indicate that PM Modi raised concerns about the increasing activities of Khalistani groups during bilateral discussions with leaders of the United Kingdom and Canada. He reiterated his commitment to addressing issues directly impacting India's national security.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, in his remarks ahead of the G20 Summit, addressed India's concerns about pro-Khalistani elements in the UK. He emphasized that no form of extremism is acceptable in the UK and that the government is actively working to counter and disrupt violent and divisive ideologies. Sunak reaffirmed the UK's cooperation with the Indian government in tackling the threat from pro-Khalistan extremism and stressed that lawful protests should not turn violent or threatening.

Despite continuous concerns raised by India regarding the safety of Hindu temples in Canada, there have been multiple incidents of temple vandalism this year. In August, an incident involved Khalistani extremists allegedly placing posters related to "bogus Khalistani referendums" on the door of Surrey Mandir in British Columbia. The posters featured a picture of designated terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the chief of the Khalistan Tiger Force, who was killed earlier in the year.

Earlier incidents of temple vandalization in Canada include the vandalism of the BAPS Swaminarayan temple in Windsor in April, the defacing of the Ram Mandir in Mississauga in February, and the defacement of a Hindu temple in Brampton in January. The Indian Consulate in Toronto condemned these acts and urged Canadian authorities to investigate and take prompt action against those responsible.