India on Monday summoned the Canadian deputy high commissioner after pro-Khalistan slogans were raised at a public event attended by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in Toronto.
"The Government of India's deep concern and strong protest was conveyed at such disturbing actions being allowed to continue unchecked at the event," the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.
The incident illustrates once again the political space given in Canada to separatism, extremism and violence, it said.
"Their continued expressions not only impact India-Canada relations but also encourage a climate of violence and criminality in Canada to the detriment of its own citizens," the statement further said.
The separatist slogans were raised at the Khalsa Day Parade in downtown Toronto on Sunday afternoon.
Khalsa Day, also known as Vaisakhi, marks the Sikh New Year and the establishment of the Sikh community in 1699, according to the Ontario Sikhs and Gurdwaras Council (OSGC).
In his address at the event, Trudeau vowed to always protect the rights and freedoms of Sikhs in Canada and defend the community against hatred and discrimination.
"To the nearly 800,000 Canadians of Sikh heritage across this country, we will always be there to protect your rights and your freedoms, and we will always defend your community against hatred and discrimination," said the Canadian prime minister.
Trudeau was accompanied at the event by four cabinet ministers. As he arrived on the podium, he was greeted with shouts of Khalistan Zindabad, reported PTI.
