Canada has said it takes “very seriously” the concerns raised by India about rising activities of Sikh separatists affiliated to the Khalistan movement in the country.
“The Government of Canada takes Indian concerns regarding extremist activities very seriously. These issues are regularly reviewed by government officials,” said Andrew MacDougall, Press Secretary to Prime Minister Stephen Harper.
He said: “As you know, in 2003, Canada listed Babbar Khalsa and the International Sikh Youth Federation as terrorist entities.”
ADVERTISEMENT
Describing the Kanishka bombing as a terrible tragedy and the worst terrorist incident in Canadian history, Mr. MacDougall said: “It is a reminder to all Canadians that we are not immune to the threat of terrorism.”
Kanishka report
The government looks forward to the final report of Justice Major's Commission of Inquiry into the Investigation of the Bombing of Air India Flight 182, he said.
ADVERTISEMENT
“Its findings and recommendations of Justice John Major Commission should assist our continuing efforts to protect Canadians from terrorist acts.”
Recently, High Commissioner in Ottawa S M Gawai raised the Khalistan movement activities with the Canadian government.
Canada is one of the few countries, according to the Indiawhere pro-Khalistani elements are becoming active again. India had also expressed concern at attempts to de-list banned organisations such as the Babbar Khalsa in Canada.