India’s Ministry of External Affairs, led by S. Jaishankar, expressed strong dissatisfaction with the Canadian government on Wednesday. In a formal communication to Global Affairs Canada, India’s High Commission in Ottawa conveyed its displeasure regarding the recent visuals of a parade float in Brampton city that depicted the assassination of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Minister Jaishankar criticized Canada for its apparent tolerance of pro-Khalistan elements, emphasizing that such actions are detrimental to Canada’s relationship with India.
During a media address, Minister Jaishankar voiced his concerns about the float and questioned the motives behind it. He highlighted the larger issue of providing space to separatists, extremists, and individuals advocating violence, expressing his perplexity over the float’s portrayal of the assassination. The float featured a depiction of Indira Gandhi alongside her killers, who were members of her security detail. Additionally, a sign on the float referred to the assassination as “Revenge for Attack on Shri Darbar Sahib,” alluding to the Indian troops’ storming of the Golden Temple in 1984.
Reports suggest that the parade, allegedly organized by Khalistani supporters, took place on June 4, just days before the upcoming 39th anniversary of ‘Operation Blue Star’ on June 6.
India’s High Commission promptly conveyed its concerns to Global Affairs Canada through a formal note, expressing its displeasure over the incident. Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh also condemned the depiction of Indira Gandhi’s assassination as “despicable” and called on Minister Jaishankar to strongly address the matter with Canadian authorities. Congress member Milind Deora emphasized the need for universal condemnation and a united response, stating that it is not about taking sides but about respecting a nation’s history and acknowledging the pain caused by the assassination of its Prime Minister.
Jaishankar Slams Canada’s Tolerance of Indira Gandhi’s Assassination Celebration: ‘Unacceptable’ for Bilateral Relations
In response to the incident, Canadian High Commissioner in India, Cameron MacKay, condemned the float, asserting that there is no place for hate or the glorification of violence in Canada.
The episode has strained bilateral relations between India and Canada, with India expressing its deep concerns and demanding appropriate action against such displays of extremism. Minister Jaishankar’s strong response reflects the government’s commitment to protecting the dignity of the nation and its leaders. The incident serves as a reminder of the significance of fostering mutual respect and understanding in international relationships, particularly when it comes to sensitive historical events.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs took a strong stance against Canada on Wednesday following the circulation of visuals depicting a parade float in Brampton city that showcased the assassination of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The ministry conveyed its displeasure to Global Affairs Canada through a formal communication, expressing its concerns over the incident. Minister S. Jaishankar, leading the Ministry of External Affairs, criticized Canada for what he perceived as a tolerance of pro-Khalistan elements, stating that such actions have a negative impact on bilateral relations between the two countries.
During a media address, Minister Jaishankar expressed his bewilderment over the float’s portrayal of Indira Gandhi’s assassination, questioning the motives behind it. He raised concerns about the space given to separatists, extremists, and individuals advocating violence, emphasizing that the float’s depiction was both disheartening and unacceptable. The parade float included a representation of Indira Gandhi along with her killers, who were members of her security detail. A sign on the float referenced the assassination as “Revenge for Attack on Shri Darbar Sahib,” alluding to the storming of the Golden Temple by Indian troops in 1984.
According to reports, the parade was allegedly organized by Khalistani supporters on June 4, shortly before the 39th anniversary of ‘Operation Blue Star’ on June 6.
India’s High Commission in Ottawa promptly lodged a formal note to Global Affairs Canada, expressing its displeasure and highlighting the significance of the matter. Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh also condemned the depiction of Indira Gandhi’s assassination as “despicable.” He urged Minister Jaishankar to strongly address the issue with Canadian authorities. Congress member Milind Deora emphasized that the incident warranted universal condemnation and a united response, stressing the importance of respecting a nation’s history and acknowledging the pain caused by the assassination of its Prime Minister.
Responding to the incident, Canadian High Commissioner in India, Cameron MacKay, condemned the float and stated that there is no place for hate or glorification of violence in Canada.
The incident has strained the relationship between India and Canada, underscoring the need for sensitivity and mutual respect in international affairs. Minister Jaishankar’s firm response reflects the government’s commitment to upholding the dignity of the nation and its leaders. The episode serves as a reminder of the significance of nurturing understanding and maintaining decorum in the context of sensitive historical events.
