Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s address to the Sikh community in Toronto on Khalsa Day was cheered with pro-Khalistan slogans, highlighting the ongoing tensions between India and Canada as Trudeau’s image as a pro-Sikh world leader was reinforced.

Trudeau reaffirmed his government’s commitment to protecting the rights and freedoms of Sikh Canadians.

The Canadian prime minister also spoke the Punjabi language and shouted Sikh slogans.

The event, commemorating the founding of the Sikh community and the Sikh New Year, was organized by the Ontario Sikhs and Gurdwaras Council (OSGC) and drew thousands of attendees. As Trudeau began his speech, chants of “Khalistan Zindabad” (Long live Khalistan) erupted from the crowd, serving as a stark reminder of the Khalistan movement’s aspirations for an independent Sikh state.

Trudeau emphasized the importance of diversity and inclusivity in Canada. He acknowledged the nearly 800,000 Canadians of Sikh heritage and pledged unwavering support for their right to practice their faith without fear or intimidation. He also highlighted his government’s efforts to enhance security at community centers and places of worship, including Gurdwaras.

Trudeau announced a new agreement with India to increase the number of flights and routes between the two countries, including flights to Amritsar, a city of significant religious importance to Sikhs.

The pro-Khalistan chants underscore the strained diplomatic relations between India and Canada, exacerbated by the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani activist designated as a terrorist by India. Nijjar was shot dead outside a Gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia, in June 2023.

Trudeau’s accusations of potential Indian involvement in Nijjar’s death, based on intelligence reports, were met with strong denials from India, leading to a diplomatic standoff and the expulsion of diplomats from both countries.