NEW DELHI: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi voiced significant concerns regarding Pro-Khalistan protests in Canada during a conversation with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on the sidelines of the G20 summit in New Delhi.
A statement from the Indian government said that India has been particularly attentive to Sikh protests in Canada.
In June, India criticized Canada for allowing a parade float that depicted the 1984 assassination of Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi by her bodyguards, an act perceived as glorifying violence by Sikh separatists.
India, in its statement, said that such protests in Canada were encouraging secessionism and provoking violence against Indian diplomats, damaging diplomatic premises, and intimidating the Indian community in Canada.
India and Canada’s relations have soured, marked by Ottawa’s recent decision to halt discussions on a proposed trade agreement with India. This decision comes merely three months after both countries had signaled their intention to conclude an initial agreement this year.
It’s worth noting that Prime Minister Modi engaged in bilateral talks with various world leaders during the G20 summit, but notably, no such meeting took place with Prime Minister Trudeau.
The assassination of Indira Gandhi in 1984 by two Sikh bodyguards, which occurred following her approval of the military operation at the holiest Sikh temple in northern India, was aimed at suppressing Sikh separatists advocating for an independent homeland known as Khalistan.
Canada is home to the largest Sikh population outside of Indian Punjab and has become a focal point for protests, leading to tensions with India.
Trudeau Reaffirms Canada’s Commitment to Freedom of Protest
During a press conference in New Delhi, Prime Minister Trudeau reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to “freedom of expression, freedom of conscience, and peaceful protest.”
In an unrelated incident, Prime Minister Trudeau’s departure from the G20 summit was delayed due to a technical issue with the Canadian delegation’s aircraft, as confirmed by an official statement from the Prime Minister’s office. The delegation will remain in India until alternative travel arrangements are arranged.
