A Day After Trudeau-Modi Meet In Delhi, Khalistani Separatists Hold 'Referendum' In Canada, Challenging India's Territorial Integrity

A day after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's India visit for G20 Leaders' summit, Khalistani seperatists conducted a 'Referendum' in Surrey, British Columbia.

Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the founder of the banned Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) and a designated terrorist, was among those present at the gathering, which took place at the Guru Nanak Singh Gurudwara in Surrey, Vancouver.

According to a report by ANI, Pannun delivered a provocative speech, using intimidating language against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and other leaders, while asserting that the separatists were challenging India's territorial integrity.

Indian Prime Minister Modi expressed "strong concerns" about ongoing "anti-India activities" by extremist elements in Canada during his meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Modi conveyed concerns about extremist elements in Canada promoting secessionism, inciting violence against Indian diplomats, damaging diplomatic premises, and threatening the Indian community and their places of worship.

He also highlighted the nexus of these forces with organized crime, drug syndicates, and human trafficking, expressing that it should be a concern for Canada as well.

Modi emphasized that a relationship based on mutual respect and trust is crucial for the progress of India-Canada relations.

Following his meeting with Modi, Trudeau addressed the issue of Khalistan extremism and foreign interference during a news conference.

He reaffirmed Canada's commitment to defending freedom of expression while preventing violence. Trudeau also emphasized that the actions of a few individuals do not represent the entire community or Canada.

Regarding the 'Referendum,' Canadian authorities had previously revoked permission to hold it at a public school in Canada due to concerns about promotional materials featuring images of weapons.

The referendum was originally scheduled to take place at Tamanawis Secondary School in Surrey, Canada, on September 10.