During the G20 summit in New Delhi, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised serious concerns with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau regarding ongoing protests in Canada against India, according to an official statement by India.
India has a longstanding sensitivity to Sikh protesters in Canada. In June, India criticized Canada for permitting a parade float depicting the 1984 assassination of Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi by her bodyguards, which was perceived as glorifying violence by Sikh separatists. The Indian statement highlighted that these protesters are promoting secessionism, inciting violence against Indian diplomats, causing damage to diplomatic premises, and posing threats to the Indian community in Canada and their places of worship.
Relations between India and Canada have been strained, and this month, Ottawa temporarily halted discussions on a proposed trade treaty with India, just three months after both nations aimed to finalize an initial agreement this year. Notably, during the G20 summit, Prime Minister Modi did not hold a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Trudeau.
The assassination of Indira Gandhi in 1984 by two Sikh bodyguards, following her approval of the storming of the holiest Sikh temple in northern India, aimed at rooting out Sikh separatists seeking an independent homeland known as Khalistan.
Canada boasts the largest Sikh population outside of Punjab, India, and has been the site of numerous protests that have raised concerns in India.
Prime Minister Trudeau affirmed Canada’s commitment to defending “freedom of expression, freedom of conscience, and peaceful protest” during a press conference in New Delhi. He stressed that Canada is dedicated to preventing violence and countering hatred, emphasizing that the actions of a few individuals do not represent the entire community or Canada as a whole.
Trudeau’s departure from the G20 summit experienced delays due to technical issues with the Canadian delegation’s aircraft, as reported by the prime minister’s office. The delegation will remain in India until alternative travel arrangements are arranged.
