As tensions between India and Canada remain high over the killing of Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Sunday said those who condoned the 1985 Kanishkha bombing by Khalistan terrorists continued to find “sympathisers” today.
Puri, a retired IFS officer, said in a post on X: “Kanishka bombing in 1985 remains one of the most reprehensible acts of aviation terror against India. During my visit to Toronto on this day in 2019, I was able to pay tribute to the victims & interact with the families of several victims at the #Kanishka Memorial in Humber Bay Park. (sic)”
In a second post, he added: “Unfortunately, the systems & mindsets that tolerated & even condoned that dastardly bombing & subsequent acts of terrorism, continue to find forces & sympathisers violating international norms & commitments to combat violent extremism & terrorism, & global peace. (sic).”
Puri’s remarks come days after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said his government had credible allegations of Indian agents being linked to Nijjar’s killing in Canada in June – which India denied. Speaking at a press conference on September 21, MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said Canada had a “growing reputation as a safe haven for terrorists, for extremists, and for organised crime.”
