Canadian High Commissioner to India Cameron MacKay on Thursday said that the Justin Trudeau government supports the sovereignty and territorial integrity of India.

"Canada supports the sovereignty and territorial integrity of India," MacKay, responded to a question by ANI, in an apparent clarification of his earlier remarks.

The Canadian envoy made the remarks while visiting Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, Delhi where he was scheduled to pay obeisance and when he was asked about the measures that the Canadian government was taking to deal with the Khalistani outfit, which is proscribed in India.

He further added “all faiths are welcome in Canada” when asked about how Ottawa is dealing with increasing anti-India elements in his country.

Earlier this month, India conveyed its concerns to Canada over certain anti-India forces planning a so-called referendum in that country on their demand for Khalistan.

When asked about the so-called referendums by 'Anti India' outfits, the High Commissioner MacKay said, "All faiths are welcome in Canada" and repeated the statement once more for the third time.

External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said India has taken up the matter with the Canadian mission in India as well as with the Canadian government in Ottawa.

"Our position on the so-called referendum by the anti-India element is well known. It has been conveyed to the Canadian government. We have publicly shared this information earlier," Bagchi said.

The SFJ has proposed the so-called referendum in Mississauga near Toronto on November 6. The first such exercise was held at Brampton on September 18.

The MEA noted that there has been a sharp increase in incidents of hate crimes, sectarian violence and anti-India activities in Canada.

"In view of the increasing incidences of crimes as described above, Indian nationals and students from India in Canada and those proceeding to Canada for travel/education are advised to exercise due caution and remain vigilant," the statement added.

Image source: ANI