India summons Canadian diplomat after pro-Khalistan slogans were raised at Toronto event attended by Trudeau

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India on Monday summoned the Canadian Deputy High Commissioner, expressing strong disapproval over pro-Khalistan slogans raised during a public gathering in Toronto, which was also attended by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has condemned such slogans as highlighting political tolerance for separatism and extremism within Canada. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, these actions not only strain India-Canada relations, but also foster an environment of violence and criminality harmful to Canadian citizens.

In an official statement, the Ministry of External Affairs announced, “The Deputy High Commissioner of Canada was summoned to the Ministry of External Affairs today in connection with the raising of separatist slogans on ‘Khalistan’ at an event which was personally addressed by the Prime Minister of Canada. The event expressed deep concern and strong protest on the part of the Government of India that such disturbing activities have been allowed to continue unchecked.

The statement further said, “This once again reflects the political space given to separatism, extremism and violence in Canada. Their continued expression not only affects India-Canada relations but also harms the climate of violence and criminality in Canada.” Encourages to deliver.” Of our own citizens.”

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Pro-Khalistan slogans raised at Canadian PM Justin Trudeau’s Toronto event

The incident occurred during an event in Toronto coinciding with the Khalsa Day parade on Sunday, where pro-Khalistan slogans erupted as Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau took the stage to address the Canadian Sikh community.

The incident comes as existing tensions in diplomatic relations between India and Canada worsened due to the killing of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in 2023. Nijjar was fatally shot outside a gurudwara in Surrey, British Columbia, prompting Trudeau to reportedly make allegations. Agents of the Indian government were blamed for his murder.

During his speech at the event, Trudeau reaffirmed his government’s commitment to protecting the rights and freedoms of the Sikh community in Canada. “To the approximately 800,000 Canadians of Sikh heritage, we will always be here to protect your rights and freedoms and we will always defend your community against hate and discrimination,” the Canadian PM said.