Pro-Khalistani elements in Canada have threatened to disrupt routine activities of India’s missions, as evidenced by recent protests at a life certificate camp organized by India’s consulate in Vancouver. The event, held at the Khalsa Diwan Society’s gurdwara in Abbotsford, British Columbia, faced demonstrations, prompting consulate officials to be escorted by local police.
The Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) group, advocating for Khalistan, declared its intention to challenge Indian diplomats wherever they go, accusing them of setting up a spy network under the guise of community programs. SFJ’s general-counsel Gurpatwant Pannun asserted that they aim to “hold them accountable.”
SFJ has released posters threatening to “shut down” similar consular camps scheduled in the Greater Toronto Area on November 18 and 19, targeting venues such as gurdwaras and Hindu temples. This move follows a video from the Vancouver event where protesters heckled attendees and threw an Indian flag on the ground.
A senior Indian official reported that 10 to 20 protesters gathered outside the gurdwara, abusing both consulate officials and end-users seeking consular services. Despite disruptions, the camp, serving Indian pensioners, proceeded without issues.
These incidents have contributed to the strained diplomatic environment between India and Canada, leading to the suspension of certain visa categories for Canadian nationals since September 21. While visas were partially restored on October 25, tensions persist, hindering the normal functioning of consular and diplomatic activities.
