Surrey (Rajeev Sharma) — In a provocative move likely to escalate diplomatic tensions, a self-styled ‘Embassy of the Republic of Khalistan’ has been set up on the premises of the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia the same site once led by slain Khalistan supporter Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
The act, orchestrated by the banned separatist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), comes just as India and Canada are attempting to revive diplomatic ties following the fallout from Nijjar’s assassination in 2023. The symbolic embassy prominently displays support for Nijjar and aligns with the group’s plans for a fresh Khalistan referendum in British Columbia.
The development has triggered a wave of concern online, with critics accusing Canadian authorities of allowing extremist elements to openly challenge the country’s sovereignty.
“How is the declaration of a ‘Republic of Khalistan’ within Canada being allowed to stand?” wrote one user on X, questioning the constitutional implications of permitting such actions on Canadian soil. Another post read: “From Republic of Canada to Republic of Khalistan is this the future Canada wants?”
India has repeatedly raised concerns with Ottawa over SFJ’s activities, calling for stronger action against groups advocating violence and secession. Canadian officials, however, have cited the country’s commitment to free expression and peaceful assembly even as New Delhi views such displays as a threat to national integrity.
As the Khalistan referendum approaches, the symbolic embassy has cast a fresh shadow over Indo-Canadian relations, underscoring unresolved tensions over extremism, sovereignty, and the limits of democratic freedoms.
‘Republic of Khalistan’ Embassy Set Up in Canada Amid Rising Tensions Over Extremism
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