India formally protested to Canada following an incident where pro-Khalistani elements conducted a "citizens' court" outside the Indian consulate building in Vancouver. During the demonstration, they burned an effigy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

New Delhi formally conveyed its strong disapproval to the Canadian high commission through a diplomatic note, citing concerns over Khalistani extremists being allowed leeway under the Justin Trudeau government.

This action follows Canada's parliament observing a moment of silence to commemorate the first anniversary of the death of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

New Delhi had designated Hardeep Singh Nijjar a terrorist for his involvement in promoting separatism in India's Punjab state and orchestrating acts of terrorism. Nijjar who served as the chief of the Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF), met his demise in a targeted shooting outside a Gurudwara in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada, on June 18 last year.

Four Indian nationals—Karan Brar, Amandeep Singh, Kamalpreet Singh, and Karanpreet Singh—are accused of Nijjar's killing.

In response to Canada's observed 'moment of silence', the Indian Consulate General in Vancouver announced plans for a memorial service honouring the 329 individuals who lost their lives in the 1985 Khalistani bombing of an Air India Kanishka aircraft.

In a statement on X, the Indian Consulate General asserted, "India remains at the forefront of combating terrorism and collaborates closely with all nations to address this global menace. The 23rd of June 2024 marks the 39th anniversary of the tragic terrorist bombing of Air India flight 182 (Kanishka), claiming the lives of 329 innocent victims, including 86 children, in one of the most appalling acts of terror-related air disasters in civil aviation history."

India summoned the Canadian deputy high commissioner following the occurrence of pro-Khalistan slogans at an event in Toronto, Canada, attended by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and other political figures.

"The Ministry of External Affairs expressed deep concern and lodged a strong protest against the disturbing actions permitted to continue unchecked at the event. This underscores Canada's tolerance for separatism, extremism, and violence," stated a ministry spokesperson.

During the Khalsa Day celebrations in Toronto on Sunday (Apr 28), Trudeau and opposition leader Pierre Poilievre were present when loud chants of "Khalistan Zindabad" were raised. A video released by Canada-based CPAC TV captured the escalating chants as the Canadian prime minister prepared to address the public.

Also in attendance were NDP leader Jagmeet Singh and Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow.

Image source: Reuters