In an exclusive interview with ANI, External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar voiced apprehensions about the role of Khalistani forces in Canadian politics. Jaishankar highlighted the concerning trend of these forces being afforded space in Canadian political spheres, engaging in activities that adversely impact bilateral relations between India and Canada.
“The issue at heart is the fact that in Canadian politics, these Khalistani forces have been given a lot of space and have been allowed to indulge in activities which I think are damaging to the relationship, clearly not in India’s interest, and not in Canada’s interest either. But unfortunately, that is the state of their politics,” EAM Jaishankar stated.
Addressing speculations, Jaishankar clarified that the G20 summit in New Delhi had no relation to the Khalistani issue in Canada. He emphasized that the Khalistan issue has persisted for years, and it is not within his purview to speculate on other Prime Ministers.
Diplomatic relations between India and Canada face strain due to the pro-Khalistan lobby in Canada, raising concerns about the future of the bilateral partnership. The ties hit a low point after Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau accused Indian agents of conspiring to kill Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a claim rejected by New Delhi.
As the Khalistan movement remains outlawed in India, concerns persist over its impact on international relations, with both countries grappling to find common ground in the face of diverging political landscapes.
