Washington: India’s High Commissioner to Canada, Dinesh K. Patnaik, has said that Canada is increasingly responding to India’s security concerns and has strengthened action against extremist and criminal groups associated with pro-Khalistan activities.
In an interview with IANS, Patnaik stated that cooperation between Indian and Canadian security agencies has improved considerably in recent months, indicating a shift in bilateral engagement following tensions linked to the Nijjar issue.
According to the envoy, both countries have resumed regular communication on security matters after a period when interactions had slowed significantly.
Patnaik said discussions between national security officials, police agencies and investigative bodies are now taking place more frequently. He noted that cooperation extends across multiple levels, including information-sharing and operational coordination.
He added that authorities from both sides are working together with the objective of ensuring security interests are protected in India and Canada.
The High Commissioner acknowledged the continued presence of extremist groups in Canada but said the issue is no longer being viewed solely through the lens of Indian concerns. He credited recent engagement between the two governments for increasing focus on such elements.
Patnaik said efforts over the last several months, along with support from the Canadian side and Prime Minister Mark Carney, have contributed to pushing extremist groups to the margins.
The envoy also alleged that some of these networks are driven less by ideology and more by organised criminal activities. He referred to allegations involving illegal operations such as arms trafficking, narcotics trade, human trafficking and extortion.
According to Patnaik, these activities have transformed certain networks into criminal enterprises rather than movements based solely on political objectives.
He further said India has gained a better understanding of Canada’s legal framework, particularly concerning freedom of expression and institutional limitations in dealing with such groups.
Patnaik noted that there had previously been perceptions in India suggesting institutional support for pro-Khalistan elements in Canada. However, he said discussions between the two countries have clarified that the challenge may instead stem from legal constraints and protections around free speech.
The envoy stated that India has consistently maintained a distinction between peaceful protest and activities involving violence or extremism. He emphasised that India’s concerns centre on alleged violent actions, hate campaigns and criminal conduct rather than expressions of dissent alone.
He also alleged involvement of extremist-linked groups in criminal operations and activities affecting India’s security interests.
Despite past diplomatic tensions, Patnaik said bilateral relations between India and Canada have improved and are currently in a more positive phase. He remarked that earlier governmental difficulties no longer dominate the relationship.
The comments come ahead of Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal’s scheduled visit to Canada from May 25 to 27. The visit is expected to include one of the largest Indian business delegations to travel to the country.
The upcoming engagement is seen as part of broader efforts to strengthen cooperation between the two nations across economic and strategic sectors.
