Ottawa (Rajeev Sharma): In a major legislative move, House of Commons of Canada has approved a new law aimed at curbing the public use of symbols associated with banned Khalistan-linked groups, marking a shift in the country’s approach to tackling hate-related offences.
The proposed legislation, titled Combatting Hate Act Bill C-9, was passed during its third reading with a majority vote and now heads to the Senate for further scrutiny before it can be enacted.
Under the bill, the intentional display of flags, emblems or symbols connected to organisations designated as terrorist entities—such as Babbar Khalsa International and International Sikh Youth Federation—could be treated as a criminal offence if it is proven to promote hatred against identifiable communities.
The legislation introduces stricter penalties for hate crimes and expands legal provisions to address acts of intimidation or obstruction at places of worship, schools, and cultural centres. Officials say the move is designed to prevent the glorification of extremist ideologies while ensuring public safety.
The bill has drawn support from several community groups, including Indo-Canadian, Jewish, and Hindu organisations, who have described it as a long-overdue response to incidents involving vandalism and harassment linked to extremist symbolism.
However, critics—including members of opposition parties and civil rights advocates—have raised concerns about the potential impact on freedom of expression. They have cautioned that the law must be applied carefully to avoid misuse, although the government has clarified that prosecution would require clear intent to incite hatred. Historical or private displays would not fall under the ban.
The development comes at a time when diplomatic ties between India and Canada are showing signs of improvement under Prime Minister Mark Carney. The issue of Khalistani extremism has long been a point of concern in bilateral relations.
If cleared by the Senate and granted Royal Assent, the law is expected to reshape how authorities in Canada address hate speech and the public endorsement of proscribed organisations.
