Even as Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged the issue of “anti-India” activities by extremists elements in Canada during his talks with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, alleged Khalistani supporters organised a referendum rally in Surrey, British Columbia.
Incidentally, the rally was held on the same day on Sunday when Prime Minister Modi raised the issue with Prime Minister Trudeau on the sidelines of the G20 summit here.
Khalistani separatist and Sikhs For Justice(SFJ) founder Gurpatwant Singh Pannun made a public appearance at the referendum and delivered a speech hinting at 'balkanising' India. He was escorted by a team of security guards.
The referendum was earlier scheduled to be held at a Canadian government school but the permission was revoked after an uproar.
Prime Minister Modi on Sunday conveyed concern about "continuing anti-India activities of extremist elements in Canada."
Modi told Trudeau that the extremist elements in Canada are "promoting secessionism and inciting violence against Indian diplomats, damaging diplomatic premises and threatening the Indian community and their places of worship," Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.
"The nexus of such forces with organized crime, drug syndicates and human trafficking should be a concern for Canada as well. It is essential for the two countries to cooperate in dealing with such threats," read a statement from the ministry.
The Prime Minister also mentioned that a relationship based on mutual respect and trust is essential for the progress of India-Canada relationship, the ministry said.
Trudeau, asked if Khalistan extremism and "foreign interference" was discussed at G20, said he discussed both issues with Prime Minister Narendra Modi multiple times "over the years".
Canada will always defend freedom of expression, freedom of conscience, and freedom of peaceful protest and it is extremely important to us. At the same time, we are always there to prevent violence and push back against hatred," he told reporters during an interaction.
"I think on the issue of the community, it is important to remember that the actions of the few do not represent the entire community or Canada. The flip side of it, we also highlighted the importance of respecting the rule of law and we did talk about foreign interference," he added.