Khalistan Supporters Protest Alleged Killing of Nijjar Outside Indian Consulate in Vancouver
Dozens of Khalistan supporters gathered outside the Indian Consulate in Vancouver to protest the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The protest comes amidst Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s allegations that the Indian government was behind Nijjar’s slaying.
The protesters, waving Khalistan flags and playing music, voiced their discontent through slogans and even burned India’s flag in a garbage can outside the consulate. Similar protests took place in Toronto as well.
The demonstrators referred to Nijjar’s killing as an assassination and demanded a public inquiry into the case. The World Sikh Organization had previously warned of possible incitement and interference, urging vigilance among its members.
The president of the World Sikh Organization, Tejinder Singh Sidhu, issued a statement calling for the identification of Nijjar’s killers. Sidhu encouraged community members who feel unsafe or witness attempts to incite violence to immediately contact law enforcement.
In anticipation of the protest, the Vancouver Police Department closed the road around the Indian Consulate and placed barriers at the entrance. However, the road was later reopened to all vehicle traffic.
Tensions between India and Canada escalated when Prime Minister Trudeau accused India of involvement in Nijjar’s fatal shooting on September 18. Nijjar, a designated terrorist in India, was killed outside a Gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia, on June 18. India vehemently rejected the allegations, dismissing them as absurd and motivated.
In retaliation, India expelled a senior Canadian diplomat after Canada expelled a senior Indian diplomat. Both actions were taken due to the claim that New Delhi was involved in Nijjar’s killing.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Arindam Bagchi, stated that Canada’s allegations regarding India’s potential links to the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar were politically driven. Bagchi emphasized that there seemed to be a degree of prejudice in Canada’s actions.
The situation remains tense as supporters of Khalistan plan more protests in cities across Canada. The dispute between India and Canada continues to escalate, with each side firmly denying the claims made against them.
In conclusion, Khalistan supporters gathered outside the Indian Consulate in Vancouver to protest the alleged killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The demonstration adds to the strained relationship between India and Canada, with accusations and denials being exchanged. As investigations continue, tension remains high, and it remains to be seen how the situation will develop further.
