“This illustrates once again the political space that has been given in Canada to separatism, extremism and violence.”
In an unexpected turn of events, Canada finds itself embroiled in a fresh diplomatic controversy with India following Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s attendance at Khalsa Day celebrations in Toronto. What was presumed to be a routine appearance quickly escalated as spectators were captured on video chanting “Khalistan Zindabad” during Trudeau’s remarks.
The Indian government swiftly responded by summoning Canada’s Deputy High Commissioner Stewart Wheeler to address what it described as “separatist slogans” disrupting the event. In a press release issued on April 29, India’s Ministry of External Affairs expressed deep concern over the incident, emphasizing the negative impact such actions have on bilateral relations and the potential encouragement of extremism.
“This illustrates once again the political space that has been given in Canada to separatism, extremism and violence,” the press release stated. “Their continued expressions not only impact India-Canada relations but also encourage a climate of violence and criminality in Canada to the detriment of its own citizens.”
This latest episode adds to the strain in India-Canada relations, following Trudeau’s previous remarks in the House of Commons, where he announced Canada’s pursuit of “credible allegations” linking India to the death of prominent British Columbia Sikh community leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar
Trudeau’s attendance at the Khalsa Day celebrations was not initially included in his official itinerary for the day, raising eyebrows over the timing and motive of his presence. Despite the absence of prior scheduling, Trudeau flew from Ottawa to Toronto early Sunday afternoon, with his office subsequently issuing an amended itinerary listing the appearance in the late afternoon.
The event, which commemorates both the Sikh New Year and the establishment of the Sikh community in 1699, saw participation from leaders of Canada’s major opposition parties, including Pierre Poilievre and Jagmeet Singh.
Video footage capturing Trudeau’s address revealed the unsettling backdrop of enthusiastic chants in support of the controversial Khalistan movement, advocating for the establishment of a Sikh homeland within India. Trudeau, after offering greetings in Punjabi, concluded his speech with a brief “merci” before exiting the stage.
In the aftermath of the incident, the National Post reached out to the Prime Minister’s Office for comment, though no response was provided at the time of reporting.
This latest episode adds to the strain in India-Canada relations, following Trudeau’s previous remarks in the House of Commons, where he announced Canada’s pursuit of “credible allegations” linking India to the death of prominent British Columbia Sikh community leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. As both nations navigate this diplomatic standoff, the incident underscores the delicate balance between political expression and international diplomacy on the global stage.
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