Adopt firmer stance

IN a significant turn, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has acknowledged the presence of Khalistan supporters within Canada, while emphasising that they do not represent the broader Sikh community. His comments, coming amid escalating diplomatic tensions with India, reflect a careful balancing act. While recognising concerns about Khalistani extremism, he distances this fringe group from the Canadian Sikh majority, who largely integrate peacefully within Canadian society. The acknowledgment follows recent violent incidents, including an attack by Khalistan activists on worshippers at a Hindu temple in Brampton, Ontario, which drew widespread condemnation. Canada’s government condemned the incident, reinforcing Trudeau’s stance on religious freedom and safety for all Canadians. Following this, India had intensified its demand that Canada curb the extremist elements.

Trudeau’s diplomatic approach seems geared towards containing domestic extremism while avoiding alienating Canada’s influential Sikh population. It is on the lines of his vote-bank politics and his reluctance to disrupt ties with a vocal diaspora segment. Further complicating the situation, Canada has imposed visa curbs on international students, a large chunk of whom are from India, citing a strain on housing and resources. These new restrictions may exacerbate tensions, particularly as Canada’s educational ties with India are vital to its economy.

Going forward, Canadian leaders must adopt a firmer stance on extremism to ensure security and diplomatic harmony. While Trudeau’s acknowledgment may appear a step towards transparency, his reluctance to curb extremist groups more forcefully risks emboldening factions whose actions strain international relations. The shift in the stance does little to quell the diplomatic fallout of his public disclosure that intelligence — not concrete evidence — underlies Canada’s allegation of Indian involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistan activist.