India again hit out at Canada over a parade by Ontario Gurdwara Committee that raised separatist slogans and floats, including an offensive one against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging Ottawa to “stop providing criminal and secessionist elements a safe haven”.The latest reminder comes barely a week after New Delhi summoned Canada’s Deputy High Commissioner over the Khalistan slogans raised at an event attended by their Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
“Celebration and glorification of violence should not be a part of any civilized society. Democratic countries which respect the rule of law should not allow intimidation by radical elements in the name of freedom of expression.
“We continue to remain concerned about the security of our diplomatic representatives in Canada and expect the Government of Canada to ensure that they are able to carry out their responsibilities without fear,” said the Ministry of External Affairs in a statement. Inflammatory speeches were delivered by Dal Khalsa’s Paramjit Mand and Avtar Singh Pannu, declared a terrorist by the Indian security agencies, at the six-km Nagar Kirtan organised at Malton in Canada on Sunday. One of the floats displayed a map of Khalistan.