India summons Canadian High Commissioner to lodge strong protest over pro-Khalistani activities in Canada

The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said that it sought an explanation from the Canadian High Commissioner on how the Khalistani elements were allowed to breach the security of the Indian diplomatic mission and consulates despite the presence of police.

The Canadian government was asked to arrest and prosecute the persons who had been identified as involved in the incidents.

The summoning of the Canadian High Commissioner comes after India summoned the top diplomats posted in the UK High Commission and the US Embassy over similar incidents of vandalism and breach of security of the Indian diplomatic missions and posts in the countries by pro-Khalistani elements.

“The High Commissioner of Canada was summoned yesterday to convey our strong concern about the actions of separatist and extremist elements against our diplomatic Mission and Consulates in Canada this week," the Indian statement read.

India sought an explanation on how such elements were allowed, in the presence of police, to breach the security of its diplomatic missions and consulates.

The Canadian government was reminded of its obligations under the Vienna Convention and asked to arrest and prosecute the individuals who have already been identified as being involved in such acts.

It is expected that the Canadian Government will take all steps which are required to ensure the safety of our diplomats and security of our diplomatic premises so that they are able to fulfil their normal diplomatic functions," it said.

Khalistani supporters held protests in Ottawa in Canada on Thursday, according to reports.

An event to be attended by an Indian diplomat in British Columbia province had to be cancelled after a violent protest by Khalistani supporters.

Indian-origin journalist Sameer Kaushal, who was at the venue to cover the protest, was also assaulted by Khalistani supporters.

The pro-Khalistani elements have become aggressive following the action to arrest separatist Waris Punjab De leader Amritpal Singh, who is on the run.