Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India strongly condemns pro-Khalistan posters inciting violence against senior Indian diplomats, urging foreign governments to not give space to those advocating violence or legitimising terrorism in the name of freedom of expression, reports Indian Express on July 7. The posters have emerged ahead of upcoming pro-Khalistan rallies on July 8, 2023, in United States of America (USA), Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom (UK). The Ministry has raised concerns with the governments of these countries, emphasizing the need for the safety of Indian diplomats and diplomatic missions.
Prime Minister (PM) of Canada, Justin Trudeau, has defended Canada's stance against terrorism and Khalistan supporters, stating that Canada has always taken “serious action” against terrorism and it will continue to do so as he asserted that it is “wrong” to believe his government is soft on Khalistan supporters and terrorists in the country, reports Hindustan Times on July 7. Trudeau emphasized that Canada rejects violence and extremism, despite its commitment to freedom of expression.
The United Kingdom (UK) government on July 6, declared that any direct attacks on the High Commission of India in London are “completely unacceptable” amid anti-India attacks by Khalistani extremists emerging on social media channels, reports Tribune India. Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs of the United Kingdom (UK), James Cleverly, tweeted on July 6, that the safety of the staff at India’s diplomatic mission in the country is “paramount”. He said the British government will work with the Met Police to “review security at the Indian High Commission, and will make the changes needed to ensure the safety of its staff”, Tribune India added.