'Violent Extremism': Indian-Origin MP Says Hindus in Canada Fear for Their Safety

New Delhi: Amid the ongoing standoff between India and Canada over Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar and claims by MEA of Canada providing a safe haven
to extremists on its soil, Chandra Arya, an MP of Indian-origin in Canada has raised concerns over the security of Hindu Canadians.

In a video message posted on X, the Liberal Party of Canada  (LPC) leader, alleged that he too felt threatened by Khalistan supporters during a Hindu event in Edmonton. He added that he "could safely participate in a Hindu event in Edmonton only under the protection of RCMP officers, as a group of Khalistani protesters staged a disruptive demonstration against me."

Acknowledging the Khalistani violent extremism prevailing in Canada, the Canadian MP firmly stated that role of foreign actors in Canada is not acceptable.

"In Canada, we have long recognized the serious problem of Khalistani violent extremism. Let me be clear: any actions or involvement by foreign state actors within Canada, in any form, are unacceptable," he said, adding, "As Canadians, we do not wish for Canada to interfere in the domestic affairs of other nations. Likewise, we do not want foreign governments interfering in Canada’s domestic matters, including those involving Khalistani extremism."

He stated that the national task force is focused on probing the Khalistani violent extremism, among other threats.

"At Monday’s press conference, RCMP Assistant Commissioner Brigitte Gauvin confirmed that the national task force is focused on investigating Khalistani violent extremism, among other threats, he said.

Arya Condemns Khalistani Extremism, Urges Govt Reassurance to Hindus

Urging the Canadian govt and its agencies to cooperate with other affected countries to curb the extremism, he said, "We know that extremism and terrorism don’t recognize and are not limited to national borders. On Canadian Khalistani violent extremism, as Canadians, we expect our federal government and its agencies to collaborate with other affected countries to protect our citizens. RCMP Commissioner Michael Duheme stated at the same press conference: "There’s a violent, extremist threat in Canada that Canada and India have been working on over the years."

Referring to the severing India-Canada ties, he highlighted that the diplomatic row will act as a hurdle for Canada and India's collective ability to mitigate the issue.

"However, recent revelations and developments are impacting Canada and India's ability to collaborate on this issue. It is critical that we all recognize the importance of eliminating cross-border threats posed by Khalistani extremism and resume our efforts to address it effectively, he further said.

"Unfortunately, I have yet to hear any politician or government official offer reassurance to Hindu-Canadians, many of whom feel concerned and fearful for their safety in light of recent events," he added.

Underlining the significance of Hindu community in boosting Canada’s progress, he added, "To my fellow Hindu-Canadians: We are one of the most educated and successful communities in this country, contributing greatly to Canada’s progress. Yet, our low profile is often mistaken for weakness by politicians."

"I pledge to do my best to advocate on your behalf. However, my efforts alone are not enough. The only way to have our concerns addressed is for Hindu-Canadians to raise their voices and hold all politicians accountable. Together, we must ensure that our safety and interests are protected," he further said.