Khalistan Slogans at Event Attended by Trudeau Sparks India’s Summoning of Canada’s Envoy

New Delhi summoned the Canadian Deputy High Commissioner on Monday over the raising of separatist slogans on ‘Khalistan’ at an event addressed by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The Indian government expressed deep concern and conveyed a strong protest about the actions at the event, emphasizing that it impacts the relationship between the two countries and encourages a “climate of violence.” According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the disturbing actions at the event illustrate the political space given in Canada to separatism, extremism, and violence.

The government stated that such expressions not only affect India-Canada relations but also encourage a climate of violence and criminality in Canada to the detriment of its own citizens. Video footage released by Canada-based CPAC TV showed chants of ‘Khalistan Zindabad’ getting louder as PM Trudeau and other officials walked up to the stage at the event in downtown Toronto. Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre, New Democratic Party leader Jagmeet Singh, and Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow were also present at the event, which drew thousands of people to the city.

During his address, Trudeau pledged to protect the rights and freedoms of Sikhs in Canada and defend the community against hatred and discrimination. However, India has rejected the Canadian government’s allegations about its involvement in the killing of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar and accuses Ottawa of harboring Sikh separatists. In response to Trudeau’s allegations last year, India requested Canada to downsize its diplomatic presence in the country to ensure parity.

Subsequently, Canada withdrew 41 diplomats and their family members from India. India remains concerned about the space given to separatists, terrorists, and anti-India elements in Canada and temporarily suspended the issuance of visas to Canadian citizens following Trudeau’s allegations. Visa services were later resumed several weeks later.