India Summons Canadian Envoy Over Pro-Khalistan Slogans at Event Addressed by Justin Trudeau

New Delhi Summons Canadian Deputy High Commissioner Over Pro-Khalistan Slogans at Event Attended by Justin Trudeau

India expressed deep concern on Monday over the chanting of separatist slogans during an event attended by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, leading to the summoning of the Canadian Deputy High Commissioner. The Ministry of External Affairs emphasized the impact of such actions on bilateral relations and their contribution to fostering a “climate of violence.”

In a statement, the ministry conveyed India’s strong protest against the unchecked continuation of these disturbing actions at the event, highlighting the political space Canada provides for separatism, extremism, and violence.

The statement underscored that the expressions witnessed not only affect India-Canada relations but also contribute to a climate of violence and criminality within Canada, to the detriment of its own citizens.

Video footage released by Canada-based CPAC TV showed chants of ‘Khalistan Zindabad’ growing louder as Prime Minister Trudeau and other leaders, including Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre, addressed the gathering. New Democratic Party leader Jagmeet Singh and Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow were also in attendance.

The event, marking Khalsa Day, attracted thousands of people to downtown Toronto, making it one of the city’s largest annual gatherings. During his address, Trudeau reaffirmed his commitment to protecting the rights and freedoms of Sikhs in Canada and pledged to defend the community against hatred and discrimination, despite previous tensions with India over allegations regarding Sikh separatist activity.