Toronto Rally Advocating Khalistan Denounces Indian Policies

A pro-Khalistan rally held in Toronto has drawn attention and raised concerns, as Sikh leaders and their supporters voiced opposition to India and the Modi government. The event, organized as part of the annual Nagar Kirtan Parade by the Ontario Gurdwara Committee (OGC), featured floats and speeches denouncing Indian policies and advocating for Khalistan.

According to reports, the rally follows a similar event where pro-Khalistan sentiments were expressed in the presence of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The 6-km parade included floats adorned with slogans targeting the Indian government, with one float even depicting Prime Minister Narendra Modi behind bars. Another float displayed a map of Khalistan and called for participation in an upcoming referendum.

Speakers at the rally included Paramjit Mand of the Dal Khalsa and Avtar Singh Pannu. Notably absent was Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a prominent figure in pro-Khalistan circles.

The Indian government has expressed concerns about the rally, with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) summoning Canada’s Deputy High Commissioner over the issue. The MEA emphasized that the event highlights the “political space given to separatism, extremism, and violence” in Canada.

Adding to the complexity of the situation, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) recently arrested three Indian nationals on study visas in connection with the killing of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada last year. Reports suggest that these individuals were linked to gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, currently incarcerated in a Delhi jail.

The presence of high-ranking officials, including Ontario Premier Doug Ford, at the event underscores the significance of the rally within Canadian political circles. However, concerns over the implications for bilateral relations between India and Canada loom large, as diplomatic tensions continue to simmer amidst the backdrop of pro-Khalistan sentiments and the ongoing legal proceedings involving individuals with ties to India.

A pro-Khalistan rally held in Toronto has drawn attention and raised concerns, as Sikh leaders and their supporters voiced opposition to India and the Modi government. The event, organized as part of the annual Nagar Kirtan Parade by the Ontario Gurdwara Committee (OGC), featured floats and speeches denouncing Indian policies and advocating for Khalistan.

According to reports, the rally follows a similar event where pro-Khalistan sentiments were expressed in the presence of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The 6-km parade included floats adorned with slogans targeting the Indian government, with one float even depicting Prime Minister Narendra Modi behind bars. Another float displayed a map of Khalistan and called for participation in an upcoming referendum.

Speakers at the rally included Paramjit Mand of the Dal Khalsa and Avtar Singh Pannu. Notably absent was Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a prominent figure in pro-Khalistan circles.

The Indian government has expressed concerns about the rally, with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) summoning Canada’s Deputy High Commissioner over the issue. The MEA emphasized that the event highlights the “political space given to separatism, extremism, and violence” in Canada.

Adding to the complexity of the situation, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) recently arrested three Indian nationals on study visas in connection with the killing of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada last year. Reports suggest that these individuals were linked to gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, currently incarcerated in a Delhi jail.

The presence of high-ranking officials, including Ontario Premier Doug Ford, at the event underscores the significance of the rally within Canadian political circles. However, concerns over the implications for bilateral relations between India and Canada loom large, as diplomatic tensions continue to simmer amidst the backdrop of pro-Khalistan sentiments and the ongoing legal proceedings involving individuals with ties to India.