New Delhi, Nov 10 : India has formally communicated its deep apprehensions to the United States regarding the escalating activities of pro-Khalistani elements in Canada. This communication occurred during the ‘2+2’ foreign and defense ministerial meeting. Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra, in a media briefing, emphasized that India has clearly articulated its concerns to the American delegation led by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. The Indian delegation, spearheaded by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, engaged in discussions to address the core security concerns, particularly in light of recent videos featuring individuals associated with pro-Khalistani sentiments. Kwatra asserted that the U.S. side comprehended the gravity of New Delhi’s concerns.
Tensions between India and Canada escalated in September when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made allegations about the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June in Surrey, Canada. In response, India temporarily suspended the issuance of visas to Canadian citizens and requested a reduction in Canada’s diplomatic presence to achieve diplomatic parity. Canada has since withdrawn 41 diplomats and their family members from India. India has gradually resumed some visa services.
