Canada's Khalistani Challenge: A Strain on Indo-Canadian Relations

Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent attendance at the G7 Summit in Canada, Delhi Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa expressed optimism about improved bilateral relations between India and Canada. Concerns about anti-India activities in Canada, fueled by extremists, have been persistent topics for Indian officials, and are reportedly acknowledged by Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney, according to Sirsa.

For the first time, the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) has officially recognized the issue of Khalistani extremists using Canadian territory for promoting violence in India. The annual CSIS report highlights significant threats to national security, confirming longstanding Indian concerns about Canadian soil becoming a sanctuary for anti-India elements.

In a move towards diplomatic harmony, Prime Minister Modi and his Canadian counterpart, Carney, consented to appoint new high commissioners and restore regular diplomatic channels. The threat from Canada-based Khalistani extremists has been a key element of political violence emerging since the 1980s, complicating India's foreign relations with its Canadian counterparts.

(With inputs from agencies.)