India has consistently voiced its security concerns to Canada regarding the presence and activities of pro-Khalistan elements, emphasizing the need to deny them any political space to prevent the advocacy of violence and secessionism. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal addressed these concerns during a recent briefing, reiterating India's firm stance against extremism and separatism.
"Our position has been very consistent over several months and years now," Jaiswal stated. "We've conveyed our security concerns to the Canadian side, and we have also urged them not to give any political space to extremist elements, those who advocate violence and those who talk about secession or talk about separatism." He further expressed hope that Canada would take "due note" and implement "new action against those who advocate anti-India sentiments."
The MEA spokesperson also highlighted a recent conversation between External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar and his Canadian counterpart, Anita Anand. This marked the first call between the two foreign ministers since the new Canadian government assumed office. During their discussion, the leaders explored the prospects of India-Canada ties, with Jaishankar wishing Anand a successful tenure.
Tensions between India and Canada have been strained, particularly after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's allegations of Indian involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani leader, in June 2023. India has vehemently denied these accusations, and the relationship between the two countries has since been tested.
India has long accused Canada of providing a safe haven for Sikh extremists and failing to take adequate action against those promoting violence and separatism. Concerns have also been raised regarding the operation of the justice system in India and whether double standards are being applied in handling extradition requests for alleged terrorists. Despite these challenges, there have been instances of cooperation, such as the participation of the Director of the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) at a recent conclave of intelligence chiefs held in India.
The issue of Khalistani extremism in Canada is further complicated by the significant Sikh diaspora in the country. With over 770,000 Sikhs, representing 2.1% of Canada's population, the community wields considerable political influence. This has led to concerns that political considerations may be influencing Canada's approach to addressing extremist elements.
India has sought the extradition of individuals like Arshdeep Singh Gill, alias Arsh Dalla, a designated pro-Khalistan "terrorist" arrested in Canada, highlighting the importance of bringing such individuals to justice. The MEA has stated that given Dalla's criminal record in India and his involvement in illegal activities in Canada, his extradition or deportation to face justice in India is expected.
Despite the ongoing tensions, efforts are being made to maintain communication and explore ways to improve bilateral relations. The recent conversation between Jaishankar and Anand is a positive step in this direction, signaling a willingness to engage in dialogue and address the challenges facing the two countries. Both nations recognize that violence and extremism are shared challenges requiring joint solutions and reinforced law enforcement cooperation.
