Why Did Union Minister Dismiss Pro-Khalistani Protests in Canada?

New Delhi, June 16 (NationPress) In light of protests and demonstrations by pro-Khalistani groups during the G7 Summit in Canada, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Monday dismissed them as unjust and unwarranted, asserting that these deplorable actions should not be given any attention.

While attending a program commemorating the first 100 days of the Delhi government, he stated, “Yeh Kiraye ke Tattu hain (they are hired agents). There is no reason to take them seriously.”

When asked about reports involving Sikh children participating in the protests in Canada, coinciding with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the G7 Summit, he mentioned that these groups had previously received foreign funding, which has now ceased, leading them to resort to such tactics.

He emphasized that these politically motivated actions should not be taken lightly.

Furthermore, he noted, “A video is circulating that reveals individuals funded by a neighboring country (Pakistan) who turned against them when they didn’t receive their funds.”

Prominent videos surfaced on Sunday showing protesters with Khalistani banners on the streets of Canada, vocal against PM Modi’s visit to the North American nation, where he is set to attend the G7 summit in Kananaskis.

Reports indicated that children were also present at these demonstrations, provoking strong condemnation from BJP leaders.

Maninderjeet Singh Bitta, President of the All India Anti-Terrorist Front, cautioned against such incendiary actions, stating, "Those who are throwing stones at the Prime Minister’s photo and burning his effigy, those days are gone. The fear you once tried to create is over. The Prime Minister went straight to the place where you used to ignite hate. Do whatever you want — he is standing before you. This stone-pelting, insulting the national flag — all of this has lost its impact now."

BJP spokesperson and notable Sikh leader R. P. Singh remarked, "I don't believe the children are being brainwashed. They might not even understand whose image they are acting against. Perhaps they are unaware of what PM Modi has done for this country, for Punjab, and for the Sikh community."

It is important to note that relations between India and Canada have been tense in recent months, particularly as Canada’s Trudeau administration has held India accountable for the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on its soil in 2023. However, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s invitation to PM Modi has provoked anger among pro-Khalistani groups, who have vowed to protest.