• UGI USER
  • Jun 07, 2024
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REPORT LABELS INDIA AS SECOND-BIGGEST FOREIGN THREAT TO CANADIAN DEMOCRACY

Why in the news?

  • India has been accused by Canada of allowing space for pro-Khalistan elements to operate within its borders.
  • A parliamentary committee report labeled India as the second-largest foreign threat to Canadian democracy.
  • It noted a gradual increase in India’s efforts, extending beyond countering pro-Khalistani activities to targeting Canadian politicians and ethnic communities.

Recent Anti-India Activities in Canada:

  • Operation Bluestar Parade (June 2023): Brampton parade seemingly celebrated Indira Gandhi’s assassination, advocating revenge.
  • Pro-Khalistan Referendum (2022): Sikhs for Justice conducted a “referendum” in Brampton, claiming significant support.
  • Sanjh Savera Magazine (2002): Toronto-based weekly celebrated Indira Gandhi’s murder, now a prominent daily newspaper.
source:worldmap
About National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians (NSICOP):

  • Formation: Established in 2017.
  • Jurisdiction: Oversees Canada’s intelligence services.
  • Composition: Members appointed from the House of Commons and Senate.
  • Clearance Requirement: Members must maintain top-secret security clearance.
  • Mandate: Reviews government-wide national security matters, including ongoing operations and legislative frameworks.
  • Oversight: Provides scrutiny to at least 17 federal agencies.
  • Structure: Not a standing or special committee; an agency within the executive branch.
  • Leadership: Secretariat headed by Executive Director Rennie Marcoux.

About Khalistan Movement:

  • Khalistan Movement: Seeks a separate Sikh state in present-day Punjab (India and Pakistan).
  • Peak: Violent insurgency in the 1970s-80s, notably during Operation Blue Star (1984) and Black Thunder (1986, 1988).
  • Current Support: Persisting among some Sikhs, especially in the diaspora in Canada, the UK, and Australia.