Khalistani Violent Extremism Is Growing In Canada. Sikh separatism, commonly known as the Khalistani movement, is a growing problem for both India and Canada. And this has led relations to sour between the two countries.
The harboring of elements by Canada threatens India’s sovereignty, which the Western country deems as democratic freedom. This has led to a political fallout between India and Canada. Chandra Arya, a Canadian Member of Parliament, believes the Canadian administration has recognized and acknowledged the seriousness of Khalistani extremism.
He told the Canadian Parliament that the sanctity of Canadian sovereignty is sacrosanct, and any interference by foreign state actors within the country is unacceptable. He touched on the sensitive issues between Canada and India wherein Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged Indian diplomats and agents were behind scores of violent crimes across the country, targeting members of the Asian diaspora for speaking up against the Indian government.
Arya said the RCMP and the national task force are looking into the matter, highlighting that extremism and terrorism are not limited to national borders. The Canadian MP called on the law enforcement agencies to take the matter with utmost seriousness.
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Khalistani Movement a Challenge for India and Canada
Given the 700,000-plus Sikh population in Canada, the country has been somewhat sympathetic to the Khalistan movement. Over the years, Canadian governments have overlooked this separatist group’s activities given its freedom of expression and vote bank politics.
Canada should recognize the fact that India has genuine and legitimate concerns about its sovereignty and protect its people. Vivek Mishra, Deputy Director – Strategic Studies Programme at the Observer Research Programme, said if Canada continues to disregard the shifts in the global power dynamics, it risks damaging and even severing ties with India. This could lead to lasting repercussions in every aspect.
