Canada has begun addressing India’s security worries by cracking down on extremist and criminal groups associated with pro-Khalistan elements, according to India’s High Commissioner to Canada, Dinesh K Patnaik. Patnaik highlighted the enhanced cooperation between Indian and Canadian security agencies, signaling a positive shift in bilateral relations following the Nijjar controversy. He emphasized the significant progress in information sharing and joint operations between the two countries to ensure mutual safety.
Patnaik acknowledged the presence of extremist factions in Canada but noted that Ottawa was no longer solely considering India’s perspective on the matter. He mentioned that with Canada’s support, these groups have been marginalized, with many now driven by organized crime rather than ideology. The envoy also recognized Canada’s legal and political limitations, particularly in terms of free speech protections, which India has come to understand better.
India has consistently urged Canada to differentiate between peaceful protests and violent extremism, emphasizing concerns about the violence and hate spread by certain groups. Patnaik accused these groups of engaging in terrorist activities in India and various criminal operations. Despite previous tensions, he expressed that bilateral relations are currently in a positive phase, with past governmental issues largely resolved.
