Article Today, Canada: A new signboard reading “Khalistan Republic Embassy” at the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara premises in Surrey, British Columbia has triggered outrage. Experts believe this move hints at a separatist agenda aimed at dividing Punjab. The development risks further straining India-Canada relations, already tense over Khalistan-related issues.
Sikhs For Justice Behind the Move
The controversial installation was reportedly led by Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), a pro-Khalistan outfit banned in India. Local reports suggest that the building where the signboard was placed received funding from the British Columbia government. Recently, officials even sanctioned $150,000 Canadian dollars for an elevator in the same premises. While the Gurdwara is widely seen as a religious and community hub, the use of its space for separatist propaganda has raised serious concerns.
Historical Context of The Khalistan Movement
The Khalistan movement began in the 1970s and 80s with the demand for a separate Sikh nation carved out of Punjab. Canada’s Sikh diaspora provided strong political and financial backing at the time. Sikhs make up about 2% of Canada’s population. A section of this community continues to support the Khalistan cause. India has long accused some Canada-based Khalistan supporters of violent activities — most notably the 1985 Air India Kanishka bombing that killed 329 people.
Canada’s Silence Draws Criticism
Despite repeated warnings, Canada has taken limited action, India alleges. The Canadian intelligence agency CSIS recently acknowledged that extremist groups are using Canadian soil for violent operations. Still, no significant curbs have followed. Relations worsened in 2023 after Hardeep Singh Nijjar — a known Khalistan supporter — was killed. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused Indian agents of involvement, a claim India strongly denied. The row led to the expulsion of diplomats on both sides.
India Expresses Concern Over Latest Move
India has repeatedly voiced concern over pro-Khalistan activities in Canada. The latest development, involving public funds allegedly used for the “Khalistan Embassy” board, is expected to deepen the rift. In the past, pro-Khalistan groups attacked Indian diplomatic missions in Canada. The safety of Indian diplomats has now become a renewed concern.
Reaction From Indian Diaspora in Surrey
The Indian community in Surrey, including many Sikhs and Hindus, expressed strong displeasure over the incident. Community leaders say using a sacred space like a Gurdwara for divisive politics is unacceptable. The development could worsen tensions between Sikh and Hindu communities in Canada. Many believe the Canadian government must act decisively to address the issue.
Diplomatic Implications Remain Serious
This episode is not just a local problem, it has global diplomatic implications. With India and Canada already locked in a fragile relationship, such acts only complicate matters. Analysts say both nations now face the challenge of preserving bilateral ties while addressing sensitive domestic and diaspora politics. The incident calls for urgent clarity and firm diplomatic handling from Canada’s leadership.
