Canada's 'Political Space' for Extremists Causing Tension in India-Canada Relations

New Delhi, November 28 - The Minister of State, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Kirti Vardhan Singh, recently stated that Canada is providing "political space" to extremist and separatist elements who advocate an anti-India agenda, putting pressure on the Government of Canada to take prompt action against these groups.

During a question-in-answer session in the Rajya Sabha, MoS, MEA Kirti Vardhan Singh expressed concerns over India's relations with Canada citing instances of violent activities by extremist elements operating from Canadian soil. The Minister stated that Canada has been accused of providing a platform for separatist and extremist voices to be amplified, resulting in threats to Indian leaders, desecration of places of worship, and efforts to disintegrate India through allegedly sponsored "referendums".

The Government of India has repeatedly urged the Government of Canada to crack down on these anti-India elements, which have been actively promoting a negative narrative about India. The Canadian government is expected to take additional measures to address India's concerns and prevent further tensions in the bilateral relationship.

This statement comes at a time when Indo-Canada ties have been facing significant strain due to several incidents of anti-India violence committed by individuals from Canadian descent or with Canadian citizenship abroad. The Indian government has sought clarification and accountability from the Canadian government on these issues, which remain unresolved till now.