Act against extremist elements: India tells Canada

North News

New Delhi, November 28
India has called on Canada to take prompt and effective action against secessionist and extremist groups operating on its soil, citing their involvement in glorifying assassinations, threatening Indian leaders, vandalising places of worship, and organising “referendums” advocating for India’s fragmentation. In a statement submitted to Parliament, the Ministry of External Affairs said Canada recently expressed its inability to provide security for Indian consular camps, which serve both Indian and Canadian citizens. This has disrupted key services, including issuing “life certificates” for retirees dependent on pensions. However, Canadian authorities have ensured the safety of Indian diplomats and diplomatic properties.

India emphasized the importance of mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity in maintaining stable bilateral relations. The Indian government underscored its constructive engagement approach, valuing partnerships built on trust and understanding.

The statement highlighted the significance of the Indo-Canadian diaspora, with nearly 1.8 million Indo-Canadians and an additional one million non-resident Indians, including 427,000 Indian students. The India-Canada trade relationship reached $9.36 billion in 2023, alongside significant investments such as Canadian Pension Funds allocating about 25% of their Asia-Pacific portfolio to India.