CANBERRA– Australia, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and the United States should stand alongside Canada to dismantle Khalistani extremist networks worldwide, according to a new report.
The report, published in The Australia Today, called for joint monitoring of suspicious non-profits, intelligence sharing, and clear political distancing from separatist lobbies. It noted that while the issue has long been framed as an “Indian problem,” Canada’s recent recognition of the threat underscores its global significance.
“If Five Eyes democracies truly believe in safeguarding pluralism and protecting their diverse communities, they must act together,” wrote Amit Sarwal, co-founder of The Australia Today. “Australia, with its growing Indian diaspora and deepening strategic ties with New Delhi, is well placed to lead this collective effort. Canada has broken the silence. Now it is time for its allies — Australia included — to stand firm and follow suit.”
The report highlights Canada’s acknowledgment that groups such as Babbar Khalsa International and the International Sikh Youth Federation are actively promoting separatism and violence. The 2025 Assessment of Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Risks categorized these organizations as national security threats, marking a major policy shift in Ottawa.
While the groups’ activities are largely directed at India, the assessment cautioned that their operations have serious implications for Canadian security and foreign policy. The move follows the 2024 annual report of the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), which warned that “Canada-based Khalistani extremists (CBKEs) continue to pose a national security threat to Canada and Canadian interests.”
For the first time, Ottawa officially labeled Khalistan supporters operating within its borders as extremists. India has long accused Canada of providing safe haven to such groups, and this recognition represents a diplomatic breakthrough.
“This is where Australia and other Five Eyes intelligence partners come in,” the report concluded. “Canada has finally drawn a red line between free expression and violent extremism — and the rest must follow.” (Source: IANS)
