Khalistani Separatist Activities Face Growing Public Opposition in Canada: Report
Survey findings indicate limited support for separatist activities among Canadian Sikhs, while concerns grow over public demonstrations, security incidents and their impact on India-Canada relations
OTTAWA— Khalistani separatist activities in Canada are facing growing public opposition, with a majority of Canadian Sikhs reportedly expressing resistance to the movement and calling for stricter measures against foreign separatist campaigns, according to a report.
The report, published by Khalsa Vox, said that so-called Khalistan referendums organised in Canada by Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), an organisation designated as a terrorist outfit by India, have no legal standing in India and do not affect the country’s territorial integrity.
However, the activities have continued to generate political controversy, public demonstrations and confrontations in Canadian communities, particularly in areas such as Surrey and Brampton.
The report also highlighted concerns over incidents involving vandalism at Hindu temples, threats directed at Indian diplomats and broader security challenges. Canadian police have issued formal warnings in certain cases over potential threats to the lives of activists.
The controversy has added to tensions between New Delhi and Ottawa, which deteriorated sharply following the 2023 killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a pro-Khalistan figure designated as a terrorist by India.
Relations between the two countries are now gradually being restored under Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, with both sides exploring opportunities for cooperation in trade, energy and a proposed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. However, concerns surrounding separatist activities and security issues continue to complicate bilateral ties.
The Khalsa Vox report argued that Canada should distinguish between the broader Sikh community and a relatively small section supporting separatist activities.
It said the majority of Sikhs in Canada do not support Khalistani separatism and cautioned against allowing a vocal minority to influence the country’s foreign policy and relations with India.
Citing a Leger survey conducted in early 2025, the report said 54 per cent of Canadian Sikhs opposed Khalistani separatist activities, while 72 per cent supported stricter measures to prevent foreign separatist agendas from being organised in Canada. Another 37 per cent reportedly expressed strong opposition to the movement.
The report argued that the findings reflected considerable public resistance to using Canadian communities as platforms for overseas political and territorial disputes.
It also said that recurring demonstrations and provocative displays had contributed to frustration among sections of the Canadian public, raising questions about the balance between freedom of expression, public safety and the activities of foreign political movements.
The report maintained that Canada must address security concerns and prevent its territory from being used for activities that could aggravate diplomatic tensions or threaten community relations.
The issue remains a sensitive element in India-Canada relations as the two countries seek to rebuild diplomatic engagement and expand economic cooperation. (Source: IANS)
