Amid escalating diplomatic tensions between Canada and India, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau clarified that Khalistan supporters in Canada do not represent the entire Sikh community, just as supporters of Prime Minister Narendra Modi do not represent all Hindu Canadians. Trudeau’s comments came during Diwali celebrations on Parliament Hill, where he emphasized Canada’s commitment to freedom of faith.
Relations between the two countries have been strained since Trudeau’s allegations last year of potential Indian government involvement in the killing of Khalistan activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, which New Delhi dismissed as “absurd.” In response, India expelled six Canadian diplomats and withdrew key officials from Canada.
Trudeau also condemned a recent incident where Khalistani supporters disrupted a consular event in Brampton organized by the Hindu Sabha temple and the Indian Consulate. He stressed that every Canadian has the right to practice their faith safely.
Following security concerns, the Indian Consulate in Toronto has canceled several upcoming consular events, citing limitations in security provisions from Canadian authorities.