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Bengaluru Bandh: Pro-Kannada outfits and farmers protest against govt for releasing Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu, police detains protesters

OpIndia Staff
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Bengaluru Bandh: Pro-Kannada outfits and farmers protest against govt for releasing Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu, police detains protesters

On Tuesday, September 26, farmers and Karnataka Rakshana Vedike staged a protest against the Cauvery Water Management Authority’s (CWMA) decision to release 5,000 cusecs of water to Tamil Nadu. Bus services from Tamil Nadu to Karnataka were affected due to the bandh in Bengaluru. Several buses from Tamil Nadu were stopped at Zuzuvadi in the state’s Krishnagiri district. The police are also said to have detained some of the pro-Kannada protesters, including the BJP leaders after the protesters surrounded the Raj Bhavan in Bengaluru.

According to the reports, today’s dawn-to-dusk Bengaluru bandh to protest the supply of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu is expected to disrupt daily life, as KSRTC buses and autorickshaws would be unable to travel. The bandh is sought by farmer organisations in the staate.

While the city’s schools and universities have announced a holiday, some industry and trade organisations, as well as a number of hotels, have also stated that they will remain closed. However, the Namma Metro services are likely to continue as usual. Section 144 has also been imposed in the city.

IT and tech companies meanwhile have activated business continuity plans, and many have urged their employees to work from home to safeguard their safety and the seamless operation of the business throughout the strike.

The said protest has been organised by farmer groups and pro-Kannada organisations. More than 175 other organisations have declared support to the bandh. Further, amid the bandh, several airlines have issued travel warnings to travelers flying to and from Kempegowda International Airport.

Vistara Airlines, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air have issued warnings of disruptions and asked passengers to arrive early at Bengaluru Airport. “Due to the ‘Bengaluru Bandh’ on September 26, 2023, private transport might be disrupted. Customers traveling from Bengaluru are advised to allow more time for their journey to the airport. Thank you,” Vistara wrote on Twitter.

IndiGo Airline, meanwhile, reminded passengers that their journey to the airport would take longer than expected and encouraged them to arrive at least 2.5 hours before domestic flights and 3.5 hours before international flights.

It said, “Travel time to #Bengaluru airport may take longer than normal due to Bandh declared in #Bengaluru. We recommend arriving at least 2.5 hrs before domestic and 3.5 hrs before international departures.”

The Cauvery water dispute

The Cauvery water-sharing dispute between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu has resurfaced despite the Supreme Court’s decision in 2018 on the old conflict. The inadequate rainfall in the river’s catchment area in Karnataka is the trigger this time. The protests are in response to the ruling to distribute water at a rate of 5,000 cusecs per day to Tamil Nadu.

Protesters state that water is being transferred to Tamil Nadu even though the southwest monsoon is winding down and storage levels in Karnataka’s Cauvery basin reservoirs are extremely low. The Cauvery is the primary source of drinking water for Bengaluru as well as irrigation for farmland in the Mandya district of the state.

The Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA), a primarily apolitical body established under the direction of the Union Water Resources ministry to oversee the implementation of the Supreme Court judgments issued in 2018, is the key organisation that now governs the conflict between the two states.

The claim of political parties in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu is that the Supreme Court order of 2018 outlined water-sharing requirements only for a normal monsoon year, not a distress year, as the current one is proving to be with rainfall that is more than 30% below normal.

The DMK in Tamil Nadu, as well as the Congress in Karnataka, have asked the Prime Minister to intervene in order to establish a framework for resolving disputes in difficult circumstances. The rainfall in August and September, out of the four months of monsoon that began in June, was the lowest in Karnataka in the last 123 years.

SC’s ruling in 2018

In its ruling from February 2018, the Supreme Court cut Tamil Nadu’s share by 14.75 TMC while awarding Karnataka an additional share. Karnataka received an additional share to pay for drinking water in south Karnataka.

The Supreme Court distributed the 740 TMC of Cauvery water that must be divided annually as follows: 404.25 TMC to Tamil Nadu, 284.75 TMC to Karnataka, 30 TMC to Kerala, 7 TMC to Puducherry, and 14 TMC for environmental preservation and water that would otherwise be wasted into the sea.

The SC also mandated the establishment of the Cauvery Water Regulatory Committee (CWRC) and the Cauvery Water Mediation Authority (CWMA) in order to settle disputes between the states in accordance with the court’s final directives.

Justin Trudeau’s plane was full of cocaine: Former Indian diplomat Deepak Vohra says the Canadian PM was depressed and high in Delhi

OpIndia Staff
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Justin Trudeau’s plane was full of cocaine: Former Indian diplomat Deepak Vohra says the Canadian PM was depressed and high in Delhi

On Monday, September 25, former Indian ambassador to Sudan, Deepak Vohra made shocking claims about the Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and slammed him for allegedly extending his support to Khalistanis.

“When Justin Trudeau came to India for the G20 this month, his plane was full of cocaine. He did not come out of his room for two days,” Vohra said while speaking to journalist Deepak Chaurasia on a Zee News debate show.

Vohra indicated that the Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, behaves like he is a small kid and that he has very little knowledge about international relations.

“In his parliament address, he used the words ‘credible allegations’ against India. How can allegations be credible? Either it can be credible or an allegation. I also have a ‘credible rumour’ to make in this case that ‘Trudeau’ is crazy. It is a credible rumor,” he said.

The former Indian diplomat added that when the Canadian PM had come to Delhi, it was a ‘credible rumour’ that Indian sniffer dogs discovered cocaine from his plane.

“My wife saw him at the Delhi airport and said that Trudeau looked depressed and stressed. We don’t know the reason. I don’t know the reality, but social media and some ‘credible rumors’ suggest that his plane was full of cocaine. He also missed the President’s dinner as some people say that he was not in his senses due to the drug consumption. So, seeing this nothing can be said about what goes on in his mind,” Vohra said.

“He has definitely gone insane. He has become lonely. He is now trying to show that he is a Canadian Rambo and nothing can go wrong in his presence. India has done the right thing by suspending visa services in Canada. The Indian government has shown that now we are ‘New Bharat’ and that we’ll take a stand for the betterment of the country,” he further added.

Canada has been criticised by India for harbouring Sikh separatists, and Khalistanis while the country has maintained its right to free expression. At the recent G20 Summit in Delhi, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi questioned Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau about the “anti-India activities” in Canada linked to extremist groups.

Trudeau’s Liberals currently holds power with the New Democratic Party (NDP), led by Indian-origin politician Jagmeet Singh, a known Khalistani sympathiser. The NDP has vowed to support the government until the next general election in autumn 2025.

In an unexpected assertion last week, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said his country’s intelligence agencies were looking into a “potential link” between “agents of the Indian government” and Nijjar’s death. Nijjar was referred to as a “Canadian citizen” by Trudeau.

In retaliation to Ottawa’s removal of an Indian official over the case, New Delhi clearly rejected the charges as “absurd” and “motivated,” and expelled a senior Canadian diplomat.

Nijjar, one of India’s most wanted terrorists, with a Rs 10 lakh cash reward on his head, was shot dead on June 18 by two unidentified shooters outside a gurudwara in Surrey. He was the Khalistan Tiger Force’s (KTF) commander.

In a strongly worded statement, India said that Canada’s claims appeared to be “politically motivated” and urged the Trudeau government to crack down hard on terrorists and anti-India elements operating on its soil. As a result of the diplomatic blockade over Nijjar’s murder, India has now suspended visa services for Canadians.

Recently, on Monday, September 25, the Indian Government also announced that it was in the process of canceling the registration of over a dozen Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card holders for carrying out pro-Khalistan activities and anti-India propaganda.

Canada: Pro-Khalistan protests outside Indian consulates fail as spectators and media outnumbered protesters

OpIndia Staff
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Canada: Pro-Khalistan protests outside Indian consulates fail as spectators and media outnumbered protesters

On 25th September, pro-Khalistani elements organised protests and rallies outside Indian Consulates in different cities of Canada, demanding the expulsion of Indian diplomats. Khalistani terrorist organisation Sikhs For Justice’s chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun called the protests.

The call for protests came after allegations were made by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau against India over the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil.

Reports suggest Khalistanis failed to gather support as only a handful of pro-Khalistanis came out to protest, and at some locations, spectators and media personnel outnumbered the protesters.

According to a report in News18, only 25 people showed up outside Indian Consulate in Vancouver and waved Khalistani flags. Some of them held placards thanking Trudeau for “standing with Sikhs”. Interestingly, the media persons and police personnel outnumbered the protesters at the rally. Though the official press release claimed there were 100 protesters, eyewitnesses told News18 that only 25 protesters turned up at the site.

In Toronto, around 100 protesters gathered and raised anti-India slogans. They also raised “Khalistan Zindabad” slogans. Shockingly, they slapped and spat on a cardboard cutout of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and burnt Indian flags in while the Canadian police watched.

A similar scene was seen in the Canadian capital Ottawa where around 100 pro-Khalistani elements gathered outside Indian High Commission’s office, waving Khalistani flags and raising pro-Khalistani slogans.

The Khalistani elements burnt PM Modi’s effigy with the Indian flag.

Social media videos suggest that some protesters wrapped a football with an Indian flag and played with it.

One video showed Khalistanis tearing the Indian flag and standing on a large Indian flag.

Following the calls of protests by SFJ, barricading was done outside Indian Missions in Ottawa, Toronto, and Vancouver. Local and federal police were deployed by the Canadian authorities to maintain law and order.

Canada accused India of killing Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar

Tensions rose between India and Canada after Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau accused India of involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil. Canada expelled an Indian diplomat after the allegations, but other allied countries refused to issue a joint statement against India.

In retaliation, India denied the allegations and expelled a Canadian diplomat. The dispute led to India stopping visa issuance to Canadian citizens and halting trade talks between the two countries. India had previously expressed concerns about increasing Khalistani activities in Canada, including speeches by Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun during a so-called Khalistan referendum. It was also revealed that Nijjar was on the US No Fly list, leading to questions about why Canada was providing a haven for designated terrorists and organized crime, as noted by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs.

Canada: Opposition Conservative party expresses outrage at Khalistani terrorist’s murder, bats for new law while blaming India

Dibakar Dutta
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Canada: Opposition Conservative party expresses outrage at Khalistani terrorist’s murder, bats for new law while blaming India

Days after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused the Indian government of killing Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the Opposition Conservative Party has also expressed outrage over the murder of the Khalistani terrorist.

On Monday (September 25), Tim S Uppal, the Deputy leader of the Conservative Party, said, “Let me begin by offering my sincere condolences to Bhai Hardeep Singh Nijjer’s family. I also did so in person with his son after his assassination. An assassination of a Canadian on Canadian soil in the parking lot of a Gurdwara.”

While speaking at the House of Commons, he remarked, “At that time in June and now, we call on the RCMP for a full investigation. We call on the Indian government to act with utmost transparency in this investigation because these allegations are an outrageous affront to Canada’s sovereignty.”

“Canadians must be kept safe from extrajudicial killings of all kinds, most of all from foreign governments. Canadians must be protected on Canadian soil,” he lent credence to the unfounded allegations of Justin Trudeau.

“It is for this reason that Conservatives brought forward a Foreign Agent Registry bill S-237 in November of 2021, which continues to be blocked by this Liberal-NDP government. If this Bill was passed when Conservatives proposed it, foreign agents working to intimidate, influence or even assassinate a Canadian citizen could have been stopped,” Tim S Uppal was heard saying.

“We must work together to protect Canadians from foreign interference and to ensure Bhai Hardeep Singh Nijjer’s killers are brought to justice,” he further added.

Another Conservative party leader Jasraj Singh Hallan said, “I want to express my sincerest condolences to the family of Bhair Hardeep Singh Nijjar on their loss due to the courageous assassination. In June, Conservatives called on the RCMP to conduct a full investigation into this murder reiterated in strongest terms by the Conservative leader just last week.”

“Canadians must be safe from extra judicial killings of all kinds, most of all from foreign governments. We call on the Indian government to act with full transparency in the investigation of this murder so the truth comes out,” he added.

“Conservatives brought forward a foreign agent registry bill S-237, nearly two years ago, and is still being blocked by the NDP Liberal Coalition. Only conservatives brought forward any meaningful action on foreign interference,” the MP from Calgary Forest Lawn stated.

While calling for the implementation of the Bill, the Conservative party leader emphasised, “This registry would have exposed foreign agents operating in Canada on behalf of foreign governments. NDP-Liberals need to stop and take meaningful action. Join us and pass this bill immediately so that Canadians and sangat can feel safe. Those who assassinated Bhai Hardeep Singh Nijjar must be exposed and brought to justice.”

Earlier on September 19, Canadian Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre had also offered condolences to the family of slain Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

“If these allegations are true, they represent an outrageous affront to Canada’s sovereignty…Our citizens must be safe from extrajudicial killings of all kinds, most of all from foreign governments. Canadians deserve to be protected on Canadian soil.”

“We call on the Indian government to act with utmost transparency as authorities investigate this murder…We are all Canadians.This is our country. We must be united for our home and each other.”

Canada and the Khalistani problem

It has now become increasingly clear that all mainstream political parties in Canada, including Justin Trudeau’s Liberal party, the Conservative Party and Jagmeet Singh’s New Democratic Party (NDP) have been pandering to the Khalistani extremists.

When Justin Trudeau made unfounded allegations against the Indian government to appease his Khalistani vote bank, all political parties (despite their ideological differences) threw their weight behind him.

Attempts are underway to legitimise the accusations made by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau against the Indian government. It must be mentioned that the Canadian government has so far not provided any specific proof, which could remotely point fingers at India’s role in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

In fact, British Columbia Premier David Eby has gone on record to say that briefings provided to him by CSIS (Canadian Intelligence Agency) about the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar were ‘open source’ and based on material available on the internet.

This did not stop Justin Trudeau from jeopardising bilateral relations and kicking off a diplomatic standoff by brazenly accusing the Indian government of carrying out murders on its soil.

In fact, Justin Trudeau is now facing the heat from Canadian media, which has been insisting the government to share evidence in the public domain.

Given that the Canadian government is unable to fix law and order issues at home (as witnessed in the killing of Khalistnai terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar), it is now conveniently pinning the blame on a foreign government for crimes taking place in its territory.

Supreme Court agrees to hear pleas about Tamil Nadu govt’s attempt to appoint ‘non-believers’ as priests in state temples 

OpIndia Staff
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Supreme Court agrees to hear pleas about Tamil Nadu govt’s attempt to appoint ‘non-believers’ as priests in state temples 

On Monday, September 25, the Supreme Court directed the status quo in the appointment of archakas (priests) at Tamil Nadu temples administered by the Agamic tradition. It agreed to look into a series of petitions alleging that the Tamil Nadu government is trying to appoint “non-believers” as archakas (priests), contrary to the age-old Agamas governing temples in the State.

In response to a writ petition filed by ‘Srirangam Koil Miras Kainkaryaparagal Matrum Athanai Sarntha Koilgalin Miraskain-karyaparargalin Nalasangam,’ a bench of Justices AS Bopanna stated that “in the meantime, the status quo relating to archakaship in Agamic temples in question, shall be continued in the same manner, until further orders.”

The petition, filed by advocates G Balaji and P Valliappan, urged the court to overturn the Tamil Nadu Government order dated July 27, 2023, as well as the Government letter dated August 28, 2023, and all subsequent orders. The government orders tried to interfere with the ‘passed down from generation’ scheme of appointing archakas of a particular faith in Agama temples by opening it up to those from other denominations who had completed a one-year certificate course for archakas in schools run by the government. 

According to the petitioner association, “prominent Shaivite and Vaishnavite temples in Tamil Nadu were built according to Agamas and worship therein is according to Agamas.”

As per the petition, despite orders by the Supreme Court and the Madras High Court, the state government is attempting to appoint non-believers as archakas, only with a view to destroying temples in the state. “It is well settled that a secular Government does not have the power to interfere with essential religious practices, as such a right is well protected under the Constitution of India. Agamas undoubtedly pertains to an essential religious practice, which cannot be tampered with by a secular Government,” the petition read. 

It went on to say that experience in Agamas is not gained through one-year certificate courses but through years of endured instruction under learned Gurus. “…they obtain Deekshai or Samskara (initiation) from their Guru/Acharya, who is most often their respective fathers, at a very early age viz. between five and seven years, and undergo rigorous Vedic education for a minimum period of three years. Thereafter, they are groomed to perform Poojas and Homams for another three to five years before taking over as Archakas”, it pointed out.

Senior Advocate Guru Krishna Kumar, appearing for the petitioner association, stated that the Supreme Court held in the 1972 case Seshammal and Others vs State of Tamil Nadu and the 2016 case Adi Saiva Sivachariyargal Nala Sangam v Government of Tamil Nadu that Archakas of Agama temples must be appointed in accordance with Agama traditions.

SC refuses to stay Tamil Nadu government’s decision to appoint Archakas in temples

Notably, last year the apex court issued notice to the Tamil Nadu government, refusing to stay the latter’s decision to appoint or dismiss ‘Archakas’ (priests) in temples in the state.

The apex court had also issued a notice in a plea by former Rajya Sabha MP Subramanian Swamy, seeking to prevent the State government from appointing ‘Archakas’ (priests) in the temples there.

The petition challenged the provisions of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Act, 1959, to the extent that they gave the State ultimate power over the appointment and sacking of archakas (priests) in State Hindu temples.

Tamil Nadu government interference in Temple

The Tamil Nadu government’s Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) department has been time and again accused of interfering with the administration and taking over Hindu temple land in the state.

In a recent case, on June 27, Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) department official Velvizhi, accompanied by two female police personnel, entered the Kanagasabai amidst resistance from Dikshithars and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) supporters. The development came days after a controversy erupted claiming Pothu Dikshitars of Chidambaram Natarajar temple declined permission to devotees to offer prayers from Kanagasabai during the Aani Thirumanjanam festival.

In March, T R Ramesh, an activist based in Tamil Nadu alleged that over Rs 400 crores had been missing from the Samayapuram Mariamman Temple fund. The activist filed an RTI requesting a 5-year income and expenditure statement of the Temple. He alleged that up until 2021, the funds looked intact, however, in December 2022, 92% (approximately ₹422 crores) were missing from just this temple.

Tamil Nadu government’s HR&CE dept had, however, refuted the claim and said that the funds were safe.

Last year, the Supreme Court on Thursday demanded the Government of Tamil Nadu’s statement to a petition alleging that the administration indirectly had taken over the operation of over 38000 temples in the state of Tamil Nadu by recruiting executive officials but without nominating temple trustees. According to the petition, the act has resulted in the mishandling of the finances of large temples

In the past few years, there have been several incidents when the Hindu temples in the state of Tamil Nadu have faced attacks. Tamil Nadu is a land of temples, the majority of which are ancient and have significant heritage significance. Unfortunately, the temples are now the target of criminals and the victims of indifferent authorities and bureaucrats.

Attacks on Hindu temples in TN

The recent wave of vandalism events at Hindu temples in the state has been cause for great concern. The HR & CE department, which is in charge of temple management, and the Tamil Nadu police have adopted a casual approach to the crisis.

The police have conveniently labelled the attackers mentally challenged in several of the cases. This police version has received little interest as only Hindu temples are usually damaged.

Earlier this year, on August 7, a miscreant smashed the murtis of Bhagwan Murugan and Valli and Devyani at the Dhandayudhapani temple around noon. The temple is situated atop a hill. When devotees saw the man damage the murtis, they handed him over to the authorities. He was identified as Boopathy, a Siruvayalur inhabitant. He was declared mentally ill by the police.

Also in the year 2021, the rock-cut mountain temples on top of Aththri Hills in Alvarkurichi in Tirunelveli district were vandalized by the Islamists. As reported earlier, the rocks surrounding the Hindu temples on Aththri hills were desecrated allegedly by Muslims, who painted the Islamic symbol “crescent moon” on the sacred rocks. The culprits also wrote “Allah”, along with an Islamic symbol and the number 786, atop the hill.

In June 2021, a Chola-era Shiva temple in the Pudukkottai district of Tamil Nadu was vandalized, and idols of the deities were destroyed by unknown assailants.

A group of unknown assailants had entered the Kailasanathar temple in Keezhananchur village in Pudukkottai district and damaged the Shivalingam present inside the temple. The assailants also damaged idols of many deities, including Lord Shiva, Ganesha, Parvathi and Nandi installed in the Chola-era temple.

US President Joe Biden recognises the independence of 2 Pacific nations, move directed against China

OpIndia Staff
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US President Joe Biden recognises the independence of 2 Pacific nations, move directed against China

On Monday (25 September), US President Joe Biden announced US diplomatic recognition of two more Pacific island nations, the Cook Islands and Niue. With this move, the United States has recognised the independence of both these small Pacific nations. 

Notably, on Monday, Biden hosted Pacific island leaders for a second White House summit. It is a part of a three-day ‘U.S. charm offensive’ to block further Chinese inroads into this strategic region. According to the White House, the summit will focus on priorities that matter the most to people’s lives. These include issues like climate change, economic growth, sustainable development, health, and illegal fishing.

Speaking ahead of the summit with Pacific island leaders, Biden confirmed an earlier announcement by the US officials regarding the independence of both the island nations. 

As per the official website of the White House, US President Biden said, “Today, I am proud to announce that the United States recognises the Cook Islands as a sovereign and independent state and will establish diplomatic relations between our two nations.”   

Recognising the independence of Niue, the White House released a similar statement given by President Joe Biden announcing the establishment of diplomatic relations with the sovereign and independent state of Niue. 

Ahead of the second meeting with leaders of the Pacific Islands, Biden asserted that the United States has a long history of cooperation with the Cook Islands, dating back to World War II. The White House release noted that the US military had then built airport runways on one of the chain’s atolls.

According to media reports, the U.S. will also promise new money for infrastructure for the Indo-Pacific region, including improving internet connectivity via undersea cables and honouring regional leaders at an NFL game.

Last year, Biden held an inaugural summit with the Pacific island leaders at the White House. He was due to meet them again in Papua New Guinea in May, however, that plan was scrapped as Biden canceled his Asia trip in the wake of a debt-ceiling crisis. 

After last year’s summit with 14 Pacific island nations, the Biden administration pledged that it would help these island nations fend off China’s “economic coercion”. A joint declaration added that they have resolved to strengthen their partnership as they shared a vision for a region where “democracy will be able to flourish.”

Shiromani Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee passes resolution supporting Canada’s charges against India, plays victim card while ignoring Khalistani terrorist threats

OpIndia Staff
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Shiromani Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee passes resolution supporting Canada’s charges against India, plays victim card while ignoring Khalistani terrorist threats

The Shiromani Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee (SGPC) has come out in support of Canada by heeding the allegations made by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau against India. In a statement posted on X, it said, “The executive meeting of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) held today, expressed serious concern over the allegations leveled by the Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau, in the Parliament of Canada, of the involvement of officials of Indian agencies in the murder case of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a resident Sikh there.”

The SGPC passed a special resolution in the executive meeting presided over by the SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami, a leader of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and advocate. The resolution passed stated, “The statement given by the Prime Minister in the Parliament of any country is not understood as common, rather considered to be fact-based within the scope of the dignity of the concerned country’s constitution.”

In its support to Canada’s allegations, the Sikh religious body said that everything said by the Prime Minister (Trudeau) in the Parliament (House of Commons) cannot be rejected easily. The SGPC sought that the truth of the charges made against Indian agencies “should be brought to light”. Taking a step further, it said that if the case is “suppressed only because of politics, it will be considered as injustice to human rights”.

“The resolution further strongly condemned the hate propaganda being spread against Sikhs and Punjab out of this entire phenomenon on the mainstream media and social media platforms openly. It is said that the India-Canada issue has been deliberately focused by a large part of the media only on the character assassination of Sikhs. Through the resolution, the SGPC executive demanded from the Government of India to take this issue seriously and take action against those who tarnish the image of Sikhs,” it stated.

The SGPC further said that the Sikh community respects all religions and does not hold enmity against anyone. “Some people are using the current situation as a weapon to create divisions among communities, which should be stopped immediately. The SGPC executive asked the Government of India to look into this matter. It was said that action should be taken against the forces which are tarnishing the image of Sikhs. Appropriate steps should be taken to end the growing mistrust among the Sikhs.”

Earlier on Monday, 25 September, the SGPC said that Sikhs are being maligned using this atmosphere. It alleged that an atmosphere is being created similar to one which was created before the 1984 riots.

The SGPC also hit out at actor Kangana Ranaut for “preaching to Sikhs”. The SGPC accused Ranaut of running an agenda to insult the Sikh community. The Sikhs group appealed to communities all over the world to monitor the situation and those within and outside India be concerned about the situation.

It is notable here that the SGPC seems to believe Trudeau’s version of things and not India’s version. India has categorically denied any involvement in the murder of the Khalistani terrorist Nijjar earlier this year. India has also stated that the Canadian authorities have not shared any credible intelligence regarding the investigation with Indian authorities.

Also, while extending indirect support to the Canadian version, and playing victim card, the SGPC has not spoken anything about the burning of Indian flag, the threats against Indian diplomats, and the open declaration of violence against Canadian Hindus by the Canadian Khalistanis.

“What is being seen now was seen in 1984 too. Agenda is being created against Sikhs for vote bank,” the SGPC said.

This is not the first time that the SGPC has spoken in a language that supports Khalistanis and questions India. On 23 September, Akali Dal MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal supported pro-Khalistani Canadian singer Shubh calling him a “proud son of Punjab”. The singer’s India tour was cancelled owing to outrage against him for sharing a distorted map of India.

In March, when the Punjab government was taking action against Khalistani terrorist Amritpal Singh, the SGPC was critical of the government’s action against “youth”.

Sri Lanka lambasts Canada’s support for Khalistani terrorism, calls it out for celebrating a Nazi: ‘They did the same thing with Sri Lanka’, says Foreign Minister

OpIndia Staff
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Sri Lanka lambasts Canada’s support for Khalistani terrorism, calls it out for celebrating a Nazi: ‘They did the same thing with Sri Lanka’, says Foreign Minister

On September 25 (local time), Sri Lanka came out in support of India over misplaced and unsubstantiated allegations by Canada that Indian agents were behind the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Foreign Minister of Sri Lanka Ali Sabry said, “Some of the terrorists have found safe haven in Canada. The Canadian PM has this way of just coming out with some outrageous allegations without any supporting proof.”

He further called out Canada for celebrating Nazi soldiers in the House of Commons. He said, “I saw yesterday he had gone and given a rousing welcome to somebody who associated with the Nazis during the Second World War.”

Remembering how Canada accused Sri Lanka of genocide in the past, he said, “The same thing they did for Sri Lanka, a terrible, total lie about saying that Sri Lanka had a genocide. Everybody knows there was no genocide in our country.” He added, “So this is questionable, and we have dealt with it in the past. I am not surprised that sometimes PM Trudeau comes out with outrageous and substantiated allegations.”

Sri Lanka called out Canada for irresponsible statement claiming ‘Tamil Genocide’

In May 2023, Sri Lanka summoned the Canadian High Commissioner to register a strong protest over Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudea’s allegations against the country that a ‘Tamil genocide’ happened there. Trudeau had said that tens of thousands of Tamils lost their lives during the armed conflict between the Sri Lankan military and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). The armed conflict took place, demanding a separate homeland for the Tamil minority in the country. It began in 1983 and ended in May 2009 with the death of LTTE supremo Velupillai Prabhakaran.

“Our thoughts are with the victims, survivors, and their loved ones, who continue to live with the pain caused by this senseless violence. The stories of Tamil Canadians affected by the conflict — including many I have met over the years in communities across the country — serve as an enduring reminder that human rights, peace, and democracy cannot be taken for granted. That’s why Parliament last year unanimously adopted the motion to make May 18 Tamil Genocide Remembrance Day. Canada will not stop advocating for the rights of the victims and survivors of this conflict, as well as for all in Sri Lanka who continue to face hardship,” Trudeau said.

Rejecting his claim, the foreign ministry of Sri Lanka said, “Such irresponsible and polarising pronouncements by the leader of a nation breeds disharmony and hatred both in Canada and Sri Lanka, instead of promoting peace and reconciliation.”

Canada celebrated Nazi soldier who fought for Hitler in World War II

On 22nd September, the Canadian House of Commons gave a standing ovation to Yaroslav Hunka, a former Nazi soldier who had fought against Russians. The 98-year-old war veteran, however, was a member of a SS unit, the 14th SS-Volunteer Division “Galicia”, established in 1943 by the Nazis. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was also present during the occasion.

Notably, SS was the main paramilitary group under Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party in Nazi Germany and was primarily responsible for tunning Holocaust operations. 14th SS-Volunteer Division Galicia was made up of volunteers, which means that Yaroslav Hunka joined the unit on his own will, and was not conscripted.

Trudeau opened a can of worms with allegations against India over Nijjar’s killing

On 19th September, Canada’s PM Trudeau accused India of killing Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil. Canada expelled a senior Indian diplomat as a result of the allegations. The allegations against India opened a can of worms as the allied countries of Canada refused to issue a joint statement against India. Furthermore, India denied the allegations and expelled a Canadian diplomat in retaliation.

India has also stopped issuing visas to Canadian citizens following the allegations and trade talks between India and Canada have halted after the allegations. It has been recently revealed by the Indian authorities that India has shared credible evidence with Canada about wanted criminals and terrorists living on its soil. India has repeatedly raised the issue of increasing Khalistani activities in Canada that were completely ignored. Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun was seen in Canada giving speeches at the so-called referendum for Khalistan while Trudeau was attending G20 Summit in India.

Recently, it was also revealed that Hardee Singh Nijjar was on the US No Fly list and TSA, which raised questions about why Canada has become a safe haven for designated terrorists and organised crimes, as mentioned by the MEA in a statement.

Justin Trudeau blames ‘Russian propaganda’ after Canada’s parliament faces global shame for celebrating Nazis

OpIndia Staff
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Justin Trudeau blames ‘Russian propaganda’ after Canada’s parliament faces global shame for celebrating Nazis

On September 26 (local time), Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau blamed ‘Russian propaganda’ after Canada’s parliament faced global shame for celebrating Nazis. He was asked about his reaction to the fact that a Nazi soldier, identified as Yaroslav Hunka, was introduced as a war hero by the speaker of the house. He called it deeply embarrassing and somehow managed to blame Russia for the goof-up his government did by celebrating the Nazis.

He said, “Obviously, it is extremely upsetting that this happened. The speaker has acknowledged his mistake and has apologised. But this is something that is deeply embarrassing to the Parliament of Canada and, by extension, to all Canadians. I think particularly the Jewish MPs and all members of the Jewish community across the country commemorating Yom Kippur today. I think it’s gonna be really important that all of us push back against Russian propaganda and disinformation and continue our steadfast and unequivocal support for Ukraine as we did last week by announcing further measures to stand with Ukraine in Russia’s illegal war against it.”

Interestingly, the Canadian Prime Minister managed to blame Russia for the embarrassing “mistake” that the Speaker of the House made, which Trudeau claimed not to know of.

Meanwhile, Russia had called out Canada over celebrating Nazis. Kremlin spokesperson Peskov called it an outrageous event. He said, “Such sloppiness of memory is outrageous. Many Western countries, including Canada, have raised a young generation that does not know who fought whom or what happened during the Second World War. And they know nothing about the threat of fascism.”

Russian Ambassador to Canada Oleg Stepanov stated that the embassy will seek clarification over this episode. He said, “The embassy is sending a note to the Canadian Foreign Ministry and the Prime Minister’s office demanding clarification. The SS is recognized as a criminal organization by the decisions of the Nuremberg Tribunal, which are an integral part of international law. By honoring a member of this criminal community, the Canadian cabinet and members of parliament violated moral and legal norms.”

Canada celebrated Nazi soldier who fought for Hitler in World War II

On 22nd September, the Canadian House of Commons gave a standing ovation to Yaroslav Hunka, a former Nazi soldier who had fought against Russians. The 98-year-old war veteran, however, was a member of a SS unit, the 14th SS-Volunteer Division “Galicia”, established in 1943 by the Nazis. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was also present during the occasion.

Notably, SS was the main paramilitary group under Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party in Nazi Germany and was primarily responsible for tunning Holocaust operations. 14th SS-Volunteer Division Galicia was made up of volunteers, which means that Yaroslav Hunka joined the unit on his own will, and was not conscripted.

Punjab: Police conduct raids at 264 properties of gangsters across 28 districts

ANI
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Punjab: Police conduct raids at 264 properties of gangsters across 28 districts

Punjab Police on Monday conducted raids at suspected hideouts of associates of gangsters and anti-national elements, officials said.  
The simultaneous raids were conducted across the state on the directions of Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav. 
As many as 264 residential and other premises linked with close associates of several gangsters were thoroughly checked during the operation carried out at all 28 police districts in the state.

ADGP Law and Order Gurinder Singh Dhillon said that all the CPs/SSPs were directed to depute strong police parties led by an Inspector or Sub-Inspector to make this operation successful. Police teams were also asked to round up suspicious persons during the operation, he said.

He said that over 150 parties of Punjab Police, involving at least 500 Police Personnel, carried out raids at 264 hideouts linked with the gangsters and also checked 229 persons. The operation was planned after the questioning of several gang members arrested in the state, he added.

During the operation, the Police teams conducted thorough checking at the houses and other premises linked with these criminals and also collected the data from Electronic devices, which will be sent for forensic examination. Police teams have also detained two suspected persons for questioning.

(This news report is published from a syndicated feed. Except for the headline, the content has not been written or edited by OpIndia staff)

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