New Delhi on Monday summoned Canada's Deputy High Commissioner for raising separatist slogans about 'Khalistan' at an event addressed by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, underlining that it is affecting relations between the two countries and creating a “climate of encourages violence.
“The deep concern and strong protest of the Indian government were expressed that such disturbing actions were allowed to continue unchecked during the event. This once again illustrates the political space given to separatism, extremism and violence in Canada,” the Indian ministry said. External Affairs in a statement.
“Their continued expressions not only impact India-Canada relations, but also encourage a climate of violence and crime in Canada at the expense of its own citizens,” the statement said.
As Prime Minister Trudeau walked onto the stage for his speech on the occasion of Khalsa Day, chants of “Khalistan Zindabad” grew louder, according to a video released by Canada-based CPAC TV.
It happened again when opposition leader Pierre Poilievre took the stage to begin his speech. New Democratic Party leader Jagmeet Singh and Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow also attended the event.
Thousands of people flocked to downtown Toronto on Sunday for one of the city's largest annual gatherings.
In his speech, Trudeau, who angered India with allegations that the country was involved in the killing of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar last year, also vowed to always protect the rights and freedoms of Sikhs in Canada and defend the community against hatred and discrimination. .
India has dismissed the Canadian government's allegations as 'absurd and motivated'. India accuses Ottawa of harboring Sikh separatists.
Days after Trudeau's accusations, India asked Ottawa to reduce its diplomatic presence in the country to ensure equality. Canada subsequently withdrew 41 diplomats and their family members from India.
India has claimed that its “core problem” with Canada continues to be the space given to separatists, terrorists and anti-India elements in that country.
Following Trudeau's allegations last year, India temporarily suspended issuing visas to Canadian citizens. Visa services resumed several weeks later.