In a development that is likely to inflame diplomatic tensions between India and Canada, Khalistani outfit Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), in partnership with the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara Temple in Surrey, has established a so-called “Embassy of Khalistan” within the premises of the gurdwara complex.
The self-styled embassy has been set up in a community centre building located on the temple grounds, with signage proclaiming it as representing the “Republic of Khalistan”.
‘Republic of Khalistan’ board on the gurdwara complex
Images and videos shared online show a signboard reading “Embassy of Khalistan – Republic of Khalistan” displayed prominently on the building. The structure, now being claimed as an embassy by Khalistani sympathisers, was reportedly built with financial assistance from the Government of British Columbia.
According to a News18 report, the Canadian government recently provided a grant of $150,000 for the installation of an elevator in the same building. This raised questions about public funding being indirectly linked to a separatist body.
Canadian intelligence confirms Khalistani activity
This move comes on the heels of a recent report from Canada’s top intelligence agency, the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), which confirmed the ongoing use of Canadian territory by Khalistani extremists. The CSIS annual report explicitly stated that “Khalistani extremists continue to use Canada as a base for the promotion, fundraising or planning of violence primarily in India.”
The agency’s public acknowledgment marked a significant shift, reinforcing long-standing Indian concerns that Canada has been too permissive with separatist elements operating on its soil.
India has repeatedly raised objections to the presence and activities of Khalistani separatists in Canada. The diplomatic rift widened after the assassination of Khalistani figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June 2023, following which Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged Indian involvement, claims that India has categorically denied.
The ongoing activities of groups like SFJ, which have been banned in India, continue to strain bilateral ties. Since the 1980s, Canada-based Khalistani extremists (CBKEs) have used religious and cultural platforms to further their separatist agenda.