Khalistan Signage in Canada Sparks Diplomatic and Community Backlash

A Khalistan-themed sign at a Surrey gurdwara has reignited tensions between India and Canada. While India urged action against anti-India elements, Indo-Canadian leaders condemned the misuse of public spaces. The incident emerges amid attempts to restore diplomatic ties, raising fears of renewed provocation by separatist groups.

A new signage promoting the so-called Republic of Khalistan has appeared at the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia, drawing criticism from both the Indian government and local Indo-Canadian leaders. The controversial sign, featuring images of separatist figure Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale and slain gurdwara president Hardeep Singh Nijjar, surfaced online earlier this week, once again putting a spotlight on tensions between Canada and India.

India’s High Commission in Ottawa reiterated its long-standing concerns, urging Canadian authorities to act against elements operating from Canadian soil that threaten India’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. New Delhi has previously called out Canada for permitting anti-India activities under the guise of free expression, warning of the diplomatic consequences such provocations may cause.

The appearance of the signage coincides with ongoing efforts by both nations to restore diplomatic relations after months of strained ties, including the planned reappointment of High Commissioners. The murder of Nijjar in June 2023 and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s public remarks about “credible allegations” of Indian involvement had plunged bilateral relations into crisis.

Within Canada, the signage has drawn criticism from the Indo-Canadian community. Maninder Singh Gill, CEO of Radio India, condemned the use of a publicly funded space for what he described as a “Khalistan Embassy.” In letters addressed to British Columbia Premier David Eby and the Prime Minister’s Office, he demanded accountability and urged a firm stance against the promotion of extremist ideologies.

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The National Alliance of Indo-Canadians also denounced the incident, warning against the impact of fringe activities on community harmony. Observers suggest such provocative acts may be designed to undermine the ongoing diplomatic reset between Ottawa and New Delhi, raising fresh concerns about the politicisation of religious spaces and community centres in Canada.