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New Delhi, A pro-Khalistan rally took place in Toronto, marked by anti-India slogans and imagery, expressing discontent with the Indian government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the rally follows a similar event last week attended by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, where pro-Khalistan chants were also prominent. The parade stretched over 6 kilometers and featured floats displaying images such as Modi behind bars and maps of a proposed Khalistan, urging participation in a planned referendum. Notably, Sikh leaders Paramjit Mand and Avtar Singh Pannu addressed the crowd, although key pro-Khalistan activist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun was absent.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has responded by summoning Canada’s Deputy High Commissioner, expressing dismay at the political space afforded to separatist elements in Canada. The event coincided with the annual Nagar Kirtan Parade, organized by the Ontario Gurdwara Committee and attended by Ontario Premier Doug Ford.
This rally comes amid heightened tensions, as three Indian nationals were recently arrested in Canada linked to the murder of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, pointing to international implications of the separatist movement.