Khalistani Issue ‘Canada’s Problem,’ Says India’s High Commissioner Amid Tensions
Indian envoy calls Khalistani issue a Canadian security crisis.
In a fiery interview with CTV’s Question Period today, India’s newly appointed High Commissioner to Canada, Dinesh Patnaik, declared that the growing influence of Khalistani groups is a Canadian domestic security issue, not India’s burden. Dismissing allegations of Indian diplomats’ involvement in criminal activities as “preposterous and absurd,” Patnaik emphasized that Ottawa must address the “law-and-order situation” posed by these groups, which he accused of “terrorizing” and holding bilateral relations “hostage.”
Patnaik expressed frustration at needing personal security due to reported threats from Khalistani extremists, stating, “I find it strange that a high commissioner here has to be under protection in a country like this.” He underscored that the Khalistani issue is rooted in Canada, saying, “Canada cannot look at this situation as an Indian problem. It’s a Canadian problem. Canadians are creating this problem.” The envoy highlighted ongoing security dialogues with Ottawa, which include ensuring the safety of Canadians in India, signaling mutual cooperation.
Tensions have soared since 2023, when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged “credible” links between Indian agents and the killing of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Canada’s subsequent accusations of Indian diplomats engaging in “clandestine activities” like homicides and extortion led to the expulsion of six Indian diplomats, matched by India expelling six Canadian officials. Patnaik firmly denied these claims, noting India is “still waiting for any evidence” and asserting that “extraterritorial action by India is never done.”
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Recent diplomatic efforts show signs of rebuilding ties. Following Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand’s meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, both nations issued a joint statement on October 15, 2025, identifying cooperation in trade and artificial intelligence. Anand stressed public safety as Canada’s top priority, raising concerns about “transnational repression” and the need for independent investigations into crimes on Canadian soil. However, the Sikh Federation of Canada criticized Ottawa, with president Moninder Singh accusing it of using community safety as a “bargaining chip” amid Khalistani threats.
Canada’s Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree sidestepped questions about diplomat safety, emphasizing the need for accountability and trust in bilateral relations. Earlier this year, Canada listed The Bishnoi Gang, a transnational crime group linked to India, as a terrorist entity. As both nations navigate this diplomatic minefield, Patnaik’s remarks underscore a contentious divide, with India urging Canada to tackle its internal security challenges head-on.
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