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Heightened security measures were implemented due to a planned counter-rally by pro-Khalistan groups. (Screengrab)
Khalistanis clashed with celebrants at Toronto’s India Day Parade, tearing the Indian flag and shouting slogans. Tensions rise amid Canada’s largest Independence celebration
Dozens of pro-Khalistan protestors disrupted the India Day Parade in Canada’s Toronto on Sunday, creating tensions during the Independence Day celebrations organised by the Indian diaspora.
A viral video shared on social media, which News18 could not independently verify, captured the clash between pro-India and anti-India groups. The parade, held on August 18 at Toronto’s Nathan Phillips Square, was reportedly one of the largest commemorations of India’s independence in the country.
“GO BACK TO INDIA:” Khalistanis yelled at an India Day gathering at Toronto City Hall while ripping apart the Indian flag with knives.Their protest to counter the event was billed as the “next face-off” after a confrontation in Surrey, BC, on India’s Independence Day.
Tensions… pic.twitter.com/jaNtXsVMlI
— Mocha Bezirgan (@BezirganMocha) August 18, 2024
This incident follows a recent confrontation between Indian supporters and Khalistan separatists in an industrial area near Surrey, BC, on India’s Independence Day. The Toronto parade featured the “largest Indian flag outside India”, along with several floats representing Indian states. The celebration was held amid heightened security measures due to a planned counter rally by pro-Khalistan groups.
Tensions escalated between India and Canada last September following Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s comments about “credible allegations” linking Indian agents to the murder of pro-Khalistan figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar. In recent months, pro-Khalistan activities in Canada have intensified, drawing the ire of the Indian government.
New Delhi has called on the Canadian government to curb the activities of groups promoting secessionist ideologies, arguing that such actions undermine the rule of law and threaten diplomatic relations. The situation at the India Day Parade reflects broader tensions caused by the surge of the pro-Khalistan movement.
