Ottawa — Canada’s intelligence agency, the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), has identified a small segment of Khalistani extremists as an ongoing national security threat, warning that some individuals are using Canadian institutions to advance violent agendas.
In its 2025 public report, CSIS stated that Canada-based Khalistani extremists continue to pose risks both within the country and to Canadian interests abroad. The report notes that certain individuals are connected to networks that allegedly raise funds and promote activities linked to violence, particularly outside Canada.
At the same time, the agency made a clear distinction between extremism and lawful expression. It emphasized that peaceful advocacy for the creation of Khalistan is not considered a security threat, and many Canadians engage in legitimate, non-violent political activity related to the issue.
The report also referenced the historical context of the Air India Flight 182 bombing, which remains the deadliest terrorist incident in Canadian history, killing 329 people, most of them Canadians. The attack has long been associated with extremist elements linked to the Khalistan movement.
The findings come amid efforts by Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government to stabilize diplomatic relations with India, which had deteriorated following tensions in recent years. India designates several Khalistani-linked groups as terrorist organizations due to their involvement in separatist violence.
CSIS underscored that only a small number of individuals fall into the category of violent extremism, cautioning against conflating them with broader community or political movements. The agency reiterated the need for vigilance while respecting lawful freedoms within Canada’s democratic framework.