India Expresses Concern to Canada Over Khalistani Extremists' Activities

India has officially expressed its strong disapproval to Canada following a provocative demonstration by Khalistani extremists outside the Indian consulate in Vancouver. This incident involved the staging of a so-called citizens court and the burning of an effigy of the Indian Prime Minister. The Indian government's discontent was communicated through a diplomatic note to the Canadian High Commission, highlighting serious objections to the actions of Khalistani elements and the apparent support they receive within Canada.

The diplomatic note also conveyed India's frustration over the Canadian government's, led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, approach towards Khalistani separatists. This protest by New Delhi follows closely after the Canadian parliament's moment of silence for Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a known Khalistan extremist who was assassinated in Surrey, British Columbia, in June of the previous year.

The brief interaction between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Canadian counterpart Justin Trudeau on June 14, during the G7 summit in Italy's Apulia region, took place amidst escalating tensions between India and Canada. These tensions were further inflamed by Trudeau's allegations in September last year, suggesting possible involvement of Indian agents in Nijjar's murder, a claim that India has vehemently denied as baseless.

India has consistently highlighted its concerns regarding Canada's leniency towards pro-Khalistan groups operating from its soil. Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra emphasized that the ongoing issue with Canada primarily revolves around the political leeway Ottawa grants to anti-India elements advocating extremism and violence. India expects Canada to take decisive action against such groups, as repeatedly conveyed by New Delhi to Ottawa.

Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who had been labeled a terrorist by India, met his end outside a gurdwara in British Columbia on June 18 last year. The investigation into his death is currently being conducted by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).

This incident underscores a significant diplomatic rift between India and Canada, rooted in the latter's handling of Khalistani separatism. The situation remains tense as both nations navigate through these complex diplomatic waters, with India seeking more robust action from Canada against extremist elements that threaten bilateral relations.