A consular camp in Brampton, Canada, organized by the Indian High Commission, was disrupted by violent clashes on November 3, 2024. The event, held at the Hindu Sabha Mandir, was targeted by “anti-India elements,” according to the Indian High Commission. Despite security concerns, the commission managed to issue over 1,000 life certificates to Indian and Canadian applicants.
Local police deployed heavily to maintain calm during the protest, but no arrests were made. Canadian lawmaker Chandra Arya blamed the incident on “Khalistanis,” supporters of the separatist movement for an independent Sikh homeland in Punjab. Videos circulating on social media show individuals carrying yellow Khalistan flags clashing with a rival group holding Indian flags.
[news_related_post]The incident exacerbates tensions between Canada and India, which have deteriorated since Ottawa accused India of orchestrating the 2023 killing of Canadian citizen Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a prominent Khalistan activist. The dispute has led to the expulsion of diplomats from both countries. The Indian High Commission expressed concern for the safety of applicants and emphasized the need for strong security measures.
