India’s High Commission in Ottawa has officially expressed its displeasure to the Canadian government following the emergence of visuals depicting the assassination of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on a parade float in Brampton city, Canada.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar strongly criticized Canada for its apparent tolerance of pro-Khalistan elements and highlighted the detrimental impact on the India-Canada relationship.
Addressing the media, Jaishankar expressed his confusion regarding the motive behind such an act, suggesting that it may be driven by vote bank politics. He raised concerns about the space given to separatists, extremists, and those advocating violence, emphasizing that it is not in Canada’s best interest to support such elements.
The incident involved a parade float featuring Indira Gandhi and her killers, who were members of her security forces. The float displayed a sign stating that the assassination was in revenge for the attack on Shri Darbar Sahib, referring to the storming of the Golden Temple by Indian troops in 1984. Reports suggest that the parade was organized by Khalistani supporters on June 4, just days before the 39th anniversary of ‘Operation Blue Star’ on June 6.
India’s High Commission in Ottawa formally communicated its displeasure to Global Affairs Canada (GAC) regarding the incident. Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh condemned the depiction of Indira Gandhi’s assassination as despicable and urged Jaishankar to address the issue firmly with Canadian authorities. Congress member Milind Deora emphasized the need for universal condemnation and a united response to this extremist act, highlighting the importance of respecting a nation’s history and the pain caused by the assassination of its Prime Minister.
The Canadian High Commissioner in India, Cameron MacKay, condemned the incident, affirming that there is no place for hate or the glorification of violence in Canada.
The float depicting Indira Gandhi’s assassination has sparked diplomatic tensions between India and Canada, raising concerns about the relationship between the two countries and the presence of pro-Khalistan elements.
