A video circulating on social media has ignited a fresh wave of controversy involving pro-Khalistani supporters in Canada. The footage, reportedly from a “Nagar Kirtan” march in Surrey, British Columbia, shows individuals making inflammatory claims that white Canadians are “invaders” and should “return to England and Europe.” The participants also asserted, “We are the proprietors of Canada.”
Viral Video Details
The video, shared on X (formerly Twitter) by journalist Daniel Bordman, prominently displays Khalistani flags, with march participants voicing contentious remarks about Canada’s ownership. Some allegedly extended their rhetoric to include statements about Europe and Israel.
Khalistanis march around Surrey BC and claim “we are the owners of Canada” and “white people should go back to Europe and Israel”.
— Daniel Bordman (@DanielBordmanOG) November 13, 2024
How are we allowing these r*tards to shape our foreign policy? pic.twitter.com/9VmEnrVlGP
This development comes amid escalating tensions between India and Canada over the issue of Khalistani extremism, further fueling a heated international debate.
The India-Canada Rift
India and Canada’s diplomatic relations have reached a low point following the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani supporter whom India had designated as a terrorist. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s allegations of Indian involvement in the incident, based on unsubstantiated intelligence, worsened the rift.
Indian officials have accused Trudeau’s administration of turning a blind eye to Khalistani separatists in Canada, allegedly for political gains. Trudeau’s Liberal Party is heavily reliant on support from Jagmeet Singh’s New Democratic Party (NDP), with critics suggesting concessions are being made to pro-Khalistani elements to maintain political alliances.
Recent Diplomatic Stalemates
Diplomatic discussions between the two nations have stalled, with India taking strong offense to Canadian policies perceived as sympathetic to Khalistani activities. Adding to the strain, Canadian authorities recently cleared Sandeep Singh Sidhu, a border official accused by India of involvement in the assassination of Indian hero Balwinder Singh Sandhu, of terrorism charges. The decision underscored the divergent perspectives between the two nations on issues of terrorism and national security.
Community Responses
The video has sparked criticism, with Indo-Canadian communities highlighting that Khalistani supporters do not represent the broader Sikh population. Indian officials have consistently stated that Khalistani separatists are a fringe group, yet their actions undermine global perceptions of Sikhism.
Political Consequences
Trudeau’s multicultural policies, which emphasize inclusivity, have come under fire for allegedly tolerating extremist activities. With upcoming elections, his diminishing popularity and reliance on NDP support have only intensified these accusations.
This incident underscores the complex dynamics of India-Canada relations, with geopolitical, cultural, and community concerns intertwining in an already volatile environment.
