<img src="https://api-discussion.policharcha.com/1715099717973" alt="India criticises Canada for Pro-Khalistan imagery in a parade, demands action" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>

India has once again criticised Canada for providing a platform to extremist elements following the display of pro-Khalistan imagery during a Nagar Kirtan parade in Malton, Toronto.
In an official statement, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal expressed strong concerns over the use of violent imagery by extremist groups in Canada targeting Indian political leaders. Jaiswal highlighted a previous incident where a float depicting the assassination of a former Indian Prime Minister was used in a procession, along with posters threatening Indian diplomats with violence.
Jaiswal stated that the celebration and glorification of violence have no place in a civilised society, and democratic nations upholding the rule of law should not tolerate intimidation by radical elements under the guise of freedom of expression.
The Nagar Kirtan parade, organised by the Ontario Gurdwara Committee, featured floats and speeches aggressively targeting Indian political figures, including a portrayal of Prime Minister Narendra Modi behind bars. Inflammatory speeches were delivered by individuals like Paramjit Mand of Dal Khalsa and Avtar Singh Pannu, labelled as a terrorist by Indian security agencies.
Expressing ongoing concerns about the safety of Indian diplomatic representatives in Canada, Jaiswal urged the Canadian government to ensure they can carry out their duties without fear.
India reiterated its call for Canada to stop providing a safe haven and political space to criminal and secessionist elements.
Relations between New Delhi and Ottawa have been strained since Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau's allegations last year regarding the potential involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, which India termed as "absurd."
Recently, Justin Trudeau and other Canadian leaders attended a Khalsa Day celebration event in Toronto where pro-Khalistan slogans were raised. India lodged a strong protest over Trudeau's presence at the event, citing concerns about the promotion of extremist ideologies.
In a related development, Canadian police arrested three individuals claiming they were linked to the hit squad responsible for killing Hardeep Singh Nijjar. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar stated that India awaits further information from Canadian authorities regarding the matter.

India criticises Canada for Pro-Khalistan imagery in a parade, demands action

<img src="https://api-discussion.policharcha.com/1714738859504" alt="India-Pakistan rivalry shapes strategic alliances with Turkey, Greece, and beyond" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>

In the realm of diplomatic manoeuvres and strategic partnerships, Pakistan's efforts to bolster relationships with non-Arabic Muslim-majority nations like Azerbaijan and Turkey have not gone unnoticed by India.
A notable trend emerges where Pakistan's engagement with a particular Muslim-majority country prompts a corresponding response from India, aligning itself with that country's rival. This dynamic is evident in two pairs of nations, namely Turkey-Greece and Azerbaijan-Armenia.
The cooperation between Turkey and Pakistan has seen significant strides in recent years. Initiatives such as the 2016 agreement for Turkey to modernise Pakistani submarines and the subsequent 2018 deal for Turkey to manufacture four corvettes for Pakistan have strengthened ties between the two nations.
The corvette manufacturing program, which began in 2019 and saw the delivery of the first vessel in September 2023, underscores the deepening defence collaboration between Ankara and Islamabad. However, India's perspective likely views these developments through a lens of concern, especially given the historical context of regional tensions.
In return, Islamabad has reciprocated by providing Ankara with trainer aircraft, and there are indications of cooperation in drone production as well. These defence-related partnerships have been complemented by political support, with Turkey openly endorsing Pakistan's stance on the Kashmir issue.
Simultaneously, Pakistan has extended support to Azerbaijan, particularly during its conflict with Armenia. Notably, Pakistan's decision to offer its jointly developed JF-17 aircraft to Azerbaijani forces marks a significant step in bilateral defence ties.
In response to these engagements, India has taken strategic steps to strengthen ties with Turkey's rival, Greece. Military exercises between India and Greece commenced in 2021, and in 2024, the Prime Minister of Greece was invited to deliver the opening address at the prestigious Raisina Dialogue, a key international relations conference hosted annually in India.
Additionally, Indian companies like the GMR Group have undertaken private initiatives such as co-developing an airport in Greece, reflecting a broader trend of economic and diplomatic engagement.
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<ins>Also Read</ins> - <a href="https://www.policharcha.com/article/internationalrelations/dcc3ec8f-15ba-40d0-ab1a-855c7b7ca041/greece-the-latest-eu-country-to-engage-in-indopacific-with-india-playing-the-pivot" target="_blank">Greece the latest EU country to engage in Indo-Pacific with India playing the pivot</a>&nbsp;
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India's response to Pakistan's support for Azerbaijan has been more pronounced, with recent agreements between India and Armenia involving the supply of military equipment including Pinaka rocket launchers, Swathi radar systems, and specific types of artillery ammunition. While not all of these deliveries occurred before the recent conflict in Karabakh, the political gesture underscores India's strategic alignment and support for Armenia.
These developments highlight the intricate interplay of geopolitical strategies in the region, with each country manoeuvring to secure its interests and alliances amidst evolving regional dynamics.
However, the rivalry between India and Pakistan, while significant, is unlikely to culminate in the formation of distinct blocs for several reasons. Firstly, one can say that both countries lack the sheer power and influence required to forge blocs of states around them, with Pakistan falling even shorter in this regard.
Secondly, both India and Pakistan adopt a more nuanced and multilateral approach to international relations. Rather than aligning strictly with one bloc, they maintain diverse partnerships with various countries, including both Western nations and Russia, albeit in their own distinct ways.
Thirdly, India's economic ties with many Muslim-majority nations remain robust, suggesting a reluctance on India's part to counter every engagement of Pakistan. This is particularly evident in India's relations with economically influential Arabic states in the Persian Gulf, as well as Turkey, given the latter's substantial economic stature. For instance, in 2022, India's exports to Turkey were significantly higher than to Greece, underscoring the economic complexities at play.
However, one area where the rivalry impacts tangible outcomes is defence cooperation between Turkey and India. New Delhi has been cautious in engaging in military transactions with countries that also supply arms to Pakistan. This cautious approach was evident in the cancellation of a deal in 2023 for India to acquire fleet support ships from Turkey, likely linked to Ankara's collaboration with Islamabad.
Nevertheless, India has displayed a pragmatic tolerance towards U.S. and Russian military exports to Pakistan, given the formidable strength and strategic importance of these nations as partners. However, this tolerance does not necessarily extend to countries of lesser power or significance to India.
Therefore, while economic relations between Turkey and India are expected to continue, defence cooperation may witness a setback due to the ongoing rivalry between New Delhi and Islamabad.

India-Pakistan rivalry shapes strategic alliances with Turkey, Greece, and beyond

<img src="https://api-discussion.policharcha.com/1714399920953" alt="Baloch activist speaks out against Pakistan's treatment of women" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>

Mahrang Baloch, a prominent Baloch rights activist, brought attention to the severe hardships faced by Baloch women due to the actions of the Pakistani government. Her remarks were delivered at the fifth edition of the Asma Jahangir Conference 2024, themed "People's Mandate, Protection of Civil Rights in South Asia," which concluded in Lahore on Sunday.
The event saw the participation of numerous judges, human rights activists, and government officials from Pakistan, as reported by Samaa TV.
During the conference, distinguished figures from various countries, including Sri Lanka, Denmark, the Middle East, Europe, Great Britain, and Norway, gathered to discuss the state of human and civil rights in the South Asian region.
In her address, Mahrang Baloch shed light on the plight of Baloch women, stating that they are the primary victims of state violence. She lamented that these women often lose their individual identities in their struggle against oppression, being recognised solely as relatives of victims of violence. She passionately described the anguish of mothers who receive the mutilated bodies of their sons, emphasising the need for their pain to be acknowledged and addressed.
Furthermore, Mahrang Baloch spoke about the alarming humanitarian crisis in the region, citing instances of rape and sexual harassment against Baloch women. She condemned the brutal acts perpetrated against them, stressing that such actions not only rob women of their dignity but also perpetuate a cycle of suffering for generations.
Drawing attention to enforced disappearances, Baloch highlighted the prolonged agony endured by Balochistan's women, who have been tirelessly advocating for the safe return of their loved ones. She denounced enforced disappearances as a tool used by the state to suppress the Baloch people and exploit their resources. Baloch also called out the harsh treatment faced by women who participate in protests, including imprisonment, sexual abuse, and forced marriages to members of death squads.
The activist's impassioned speech underscored the urgent need for global solidarity in addressing the plight of Baloch women, urging feminists and social activists to raise their voices against the oppression faced by these women.
The Asma Jahangir Conference, named after the renowned human rights lawyer and former UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Iran, serves as a platform for discussing crucial human rights issues in South Asia. Jahangir's impactful contributions to human rights were posthumously honoured with the prestigious UN Human Rights Prize, commemorating her legacy of advocating for justice and equality.

Baloch activist speaks out against Pakistan's treatment of women

<img src="https://api-discussion.policharcha.com/1714390194897" alt="Pro-Khalistan slogans echo at Toronto event during Trudeau's speech" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>

During an event in Toronto, pro-Khalistan slogans were raised as Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau addressed the crowd at the Khalsa Day celebration on Sunday.
The loud chants of "Khalistan zindabad" were heard in the presence of Prime Minister Trudeau and opposition leader Pierre Poilievre, amidst a notable increase in anti-India sentiment in Canada recently.
The incident unfolded as Trudeau prepared to take the stage for his address, with the slogans growing louder until he commenced his speech, as captured in a video released by Canada's CPAC TV.
In his speech, Trudeau reassured the Sikh community of Canada that their rights and freedoms would be safeguarded by the government at all costs. The event also saw the attendance of Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Jagmeet Singh, and Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, among others.
Khalsa Day, also known as Vaisakhi, marks the celebration of the Sikh New Year.
Trudeau's speech highlighted the strength derived from Canada's diversity and reiterated the government's commitment to defending the rights and freedoms of Canadians of Sikh heritage, numbering nearly 800,000 across the country.
Trudeau highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance security and infrastructure at community centres and places of worship, such as Gurdwaras, emphasising the fundamental right to practice religion freely without intimidation, protected under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
The timing of Trudeau's remarks is notable as diplomatic relations between India and Canada have faced challenges, particularly following the killing of India-designated terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Nijjar, labelled a terrorist by India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) in 2020, was shot and killed outside a Gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia, on June 18, 2023.
Trudeau had previously stirred controversy in September last year by acknowledging Canadian security agencies' investigations into "credible allegations of a potential link" between agents of the Indian government and Nijjar's killing during a session in the Canadian House of Commons.

Pro-Khalistan slogans echo at Toronto event during Trudeau's speech

<img src="https://api-discussion.policharcha.com/1713962247182" alt="China seeks to deploy security personnel in Pakistan amid rising attacks: Report" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>

China has sought permission from Pakistan to station its security personnel within the country due to rising attacks on Chinese nationals, reported Nikkei Asia on Tuesday, citing an opinion piece by Ayesha Siddiqa, a senior fellow with the Department of War Studies at King's College London.
According to Siddiqa, Beijing wants to ensure foolproof security for its 1,200 workers involved in constructing vital infrastructure and educational projects in Pakistan, amid persistent attacks jeopardising the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) initiatives.
The opinion piece highlighted a suicide bombing that killed three Chinese language teachers at Karachi University in 2022, prompting Islamabad to permit Chinese investigators and pledge enhanced protection for Chinese workers. However, subsequent attacks revealed security lapses, including unsafe transport methods.
The CPEC army division, though led by military officers, mainly comprises civilian police officers with inadequate training, many of whom are engaged in domestic political tasks rather than prioritising the security of Chinese workers.
Recent developments indicate a shift in Pakistan's focus from CPEC and China's projects, with discussions reportedly underway with Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund regarding the Reko Diq copper and gold mine. Meanwhile, Gen. Asim Munir, Pakistan's current army chief, has shown a preference for closer ties with the West, leading to promises of support from the U.S. in various sectors.
While China remains pivotal to Pakistan's defence infrastructure, internal shifts suggest a growing inclination to accommodate other foreign investors. This evolving dynamic reflects Pakistan's geopolitical strategy, with officials acknowledging the importance of maintaining ties with both China and the West.

China seeks to deploy security personnel in Pakistan amid rising attacks: Report

Some British cricket enthusiasts are facing disappointment upon realising that possessing a British passport doesn't automatically guarantee unhindered entry into any country due to distinct VISA requirements.
British cricketer Shoaib Bashir, of Pakistani origin, found his entry to India denied as he failed to provide the necessary documents for processing an Indian VISA. India, owing to historical security concerns stemming from the 26/11 attacks orchestrated by David Headley, imposes stringent VISA requirements for individuals with Pakistani ancestry.
While some Brits express surprise and discontent, it's essential to note that this process is not new. Rehan Ahmed, another player in the English Test squad with Pakistani heritage, successfully obtained a VISA by completing the required paperwork. Instances involving Saqib Mahmood in 2019 and Moeen Ali's delayed arrival at the 2022 IPL season highlight the repercussions of neglecting necessary paperwork.
Despite being aware of the additional requirements for individuals of Pakistani origin entering India, some individuals consistently overlook these protocols, only to later express victimhood or display discriminatory behaviour.

The whole Visa issue for England cricket player of Pakistani ancestry

Individuals who are finding it hard to digest the fact that a grand Ram temple has been built in India, may need to brace themselves even more for the upcoming inauguration of another grand temple in a Muslim nation, Abu Dhabi, next month.
 May they find the strength to cope with their feelings, guided by the blessings of Lord Ram.

However, have you ever wondered how this feat is achieved? One of the worlds largest Hindu temple in a Muslim nation?&nbsp;

Brace yourself - Just a thought

Also read/refer my last two discussions on this subject - <a href="https://policharcha.com/discussion/internationalrelations/e9040416-a4f6-413d-857c-e93dc5c07ad1/india-canada-th" target="_blank">Discussion 1</a> and <a href="https://policharcha.com/discussion/internationalrelations/b9e0ee58-b828-4499-afbf-87f3a8b207e0/what-to-make-of" target="_blank">Discussion 2</a>.

So, since I last wrote on this matter many things have happened, and Bharat has gone to full-on offensive mode. Here's how:

<ins>Actions taken by MEA</ins>
<ul>
<li>MEA issues advisory - "In view of growing anti-India activities and politically-condoned hate crimes and criminal violence in Canada, all Indian nationals there and those contemplating travel are urged to exercise utmost caution. (Notice the language used.)</li>
<li>Indian visa services suspended in Canada</li>
<li>The Indian Government has decided to downsize Canadian Missions &amp; diplomats in India.</li>
<li>The government is also preparing for a large-scale OCI/PIO/Visa Cancellation of Indian Origin Canadian citizens.</li>
<li>Intelligence Agencies have been asked to prepare this massive list and share it with MEA urgently.</li>
<li>MEA says Canada is a safe haven for terrorists, extremists, and organised crime. (Words do matter in geo-politics. Look at this strong worded message. This is the kind of language we use for Pakistan)</li>
</ul>
<ins>Actions taken by security agencies</ins>
<ul>
<li>NIA announced a cash reward of Rs 10 lakh each for information leading to the arrest of ‘listed terrorist’, namely Harwinder Singh Sandhu/ Rinda, and Lakhbir Singh Sandhu/Landa, for promoting the terror activities of Babbar Khalsa.</li>
<li>NIA released the pictures of 43 accused gang leaders and criminals have Khalistan background.</li>
<li>Police raided more than 1000 locations in Punjab belonging to listed Gangsters.</li>
<li>NIA got active to catch Khalistan terrorists based in not only Canada &amp; Punjab, but also USA by making public photos of 10 terrorist who attacked Indian Consulate recently.</li>
</ul>
<ins>Other things that happened</ins>
<ul>
<li>Gangster Sukhdool Singh, alias Sukha Duneke, was shot dead in Winnipeg, Canada by 'unidentified' assailants</li>
<li>Lawrence Bishnoi gang claims responsibility for Sukhdool Singh's killing in Canada</li>
</ul>
<ins>Actions taken by civil society</ins>
<ul>
<li>Canada based singer Shubh's shows in India got cancelled. Brand endorsements taken away. Celebrities stopped following.</li>
<li>Anand Mahindra's company Mahindra &amp; Mahindra has decided to end its partnership with Canada based company Rayson Aerospace Corporation.</li>
</ul>
<ins>Now let's talk about politics</ins>
<ins>Geo-politics</ins>
Canada sought assistance from its Western allies to corner India, but nothing of that sort happened - more details on this <a href="https://policharcha.com/discussion/internationalrelations/b9e0ee58-b828-4499-afbf-87f3a8b207e0/what-to-make-of" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;
<ins>Indian Politics</ins>
See politics is a game of perception. One action leads multiple reactions and results. Let me explain. The India-Canada row made Khalistan talks more relevant in India. Old videos and connections started coming out on social media for the whole world to see. This led to citizens of India disliking Khalistan even more. Also, some political connections came to light.
<ul>
<li>A video went viral which showed a CNN report claiming ISI links with Nijjar. People started about talking the nexus between ISI and Khalistan.</li>
<li>Former R&amp;AW official, in an interview, told that Congress leader Kamal Nath used to send money to Bhindranwale. In short, Bhindrawale was an asset to Kamal Nath and Congress. This established a connection between Congress and Khalistan.</li>
<li>Perception made - Canada &amp; Khalistan + ISI &amp; Khalistan + Congress &amp; Khalistan = Nexus of Khalistan, ISI, Congress, and Canada. Implication - Advantage BJP.</li>
</ul>
Now I come to the title of this discussion. It was a grave mistake committed by Trudeau to name India in Nijjar's killing, especially if you consider that Trudeau and PM Modi had a conversation about this issue. The point is when they talked about this sensitive issue in private, why did Trudeau went public in accusing India.

Honestly, I believe that this was the slip-up GoI had been waiting to happen. I think the sub-par welcome of Trudeau in the G20 was also planned. PM Modi might have expected something of this sort to happen.

And when it happened, we were ready to pounce.

Now, New Delhi has the license in dealing with these separatists and terrorists in any manner they want.

The seeds of this conflict were sown during the time of farmer's laws protest when Khalistan, backed by Canada and opposition, had an agenda.
However, had the GoI taken any 'hard steps' then, it would have been branded as a Minority Killer. But now, they have a full support, both domestically and internationally, to go after these anti-India forces.

That is why they say, when an idiot is doing stupid things, don’t disturb him.
<a href="/hashtag/GeneralElection2024">#GeneralElection2024</a>&nbsp;

When an idiot is doing stupid things, don’t disturb him | India 3 – 0 Canada

"Pakistan is the only country that is not afraid of India", claims Pakistan's Foreign Secretary, Muhammad Syrus Qazi

On the question of India's involvement in the killing of Khalistani Terrorist Nijjar, Muhammad said, “We are aware of the nature of our eastern neighbours, we know what they are capable of ….. so it is not a surprise for us."

India criticises Canada for Pro-Khalistan imagery in a parade, demands action

Related Discussion

The whole Visa issue for England cricket player of Pakistani ancestry

Brace yourself - Just a thought

When an idiot is doing stupid things, don’t disturb him | India 3 – 0 Canada

Pakistan's statement on the India-Canada row

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