Pro-Khalistan Rally at Indian High Commission for Hardeep Nijjar Justice

Amidst a deepening diplomatic dispute between India and Canada surrounding the death of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani extremist, a small group of pro-Khalistan supporters staged a protest outside the Indian high commission in Ottawa. The protesters, estimated to be around 100 in number, were seen waving yellow flags bearing the word 'Khalistan.' Some protesters also burned an Indian flag and voiced their discontent against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Notably, India had designated Nijjar as a terrorist in 2020.

One protester, affiliated with the Khalistani group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), accused India of compromising Canada's sovereignty, as reported by Reuters.

The protest unfolded a week after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made contentious allegations linking India to Nijjar's killing. Nijjar was fatally shot outside a gurdwara in British Columbia in June, sparking a significant diplomatic clash between the two nations. India promptly dismissed Canada's accusations as "absurd and motivated," triggering a diplomatic tit-for-tat that resulted in the expulsion of diplomats.

On September 21, India suspended visa services for Canadian citizens, citing security threats to its consulate staff in Canada. This move also extended to Canadian citizens living in other countries, who could no longer apply for Indian visas. The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Arindam Bagchi, emphasized that the issue was not about travel to India but revolved around incitement of violence and perceived inaction by the Canadian government. India also advised its citizens in Canada to exercise "utmost caution" due to increasing anti-India activities and hate crimes, reflecting the deteriorating bilateral relations.

Meanwhile, Canada updated its travel advisory for its citizens in India, urging them to "remain vigilant and exercise caution" due to protests and negative sentiments on social media, acknowledging the strained relationship between the two nations.

Also Read: Canada updates travel advisory for India as Hardeep Nijjar killing row escalates: ‘Remain vigilant’

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