WEBDESK: More than 100 Sikh protesters gathered in Calgary on Monday, waving blue and yellow Khalistan flags and holding posters criticising Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aiming to send a strong message to the leaders of the G7 countries ahead of his expected arrival for the summit.
The summit is taking place at a secluded resort in Kananaskis, west of the city.
The demonstrators carried placards accusing Modi of human rights violations, with some showing him in a prison uniform or behind bars.
One particular sign read: “I killed Nijjar, a Canadian citizen,” referring to Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the Sikh separatist leader who was shot dead in British Columbia last year.
Bakshish Singh Sandhu, a founding member of the Sikhs for Justice group, said the protest was aimed at exposing what he called the “crimes” committed by Modi’s administration.
“This is an opportunity for the G7 to hold India responsible,” said Sandhu.
He also demanded that world leaders pressure Modi into allowing a referendum on Khalistan, arguing that people in Punjab should enjoy the same rights as citizens in G7 countries.
Indian netizens have taken to X, questioning how such humilliation and hatered is allowed on a global level.
Earlier Modi had shared a tweet announcing his arrival.
The protest, held at Calgary’s city hall, one of three official demonstration zones for the G7, was loud and intense. Kuljeet Singh, one of the demonstrators, said they were using the G7 spotlight to reach global leaders.
“Canada gave Sikhs the opportunity to challenge (Modi) directly and ambush him for the next 48 hours, for which we are thankful,” he said.
“Although India is not a part of G7, they can now be pressured and isolated. And we can receive answers to those questions, and they can be held accountable internationally for the crimes against activists worldwide.”
The protest was broadcast live to the G7 summit site, while others gathered in Banff, about 45 kilometres from Kananaskis, to express a range of concerns, from opposition to Russia’s war in Ukraine to criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza.
The presence of Modi at the G7, as a guest of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, has stirred debate in Canada. Some opposition voices, including the federal NDP and members of Carney’s own party, have raised objections over the invite.
Witnessing the humiliation some Indian netizens have also questioned Indias status under Modis rule.
Netizens have also shown concern over current situation.
Activists have long campaigned for an independent Sikh homeland, Khalistanm, a movement that India firmly rejects, labelling it as extremist.
Monday’s protest, however, only added fuel to the fire, with some scenes drawing strong criticism from Indian observers and social media users.
Pakistani diaspora honours COAS Asim Munir, Modi faces humiliation across G7 countries
On the other hand, completely contrary to the humiliation India had to face, Overseas Pakistanis in the United States warmly welcomed Field Marshal and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir during his official visit.
A large number of community members gathered in Washington D.C. to meet the Army Chief and express their support.
The Pakistani diaspora paid glowing tribute to the Armed Forces, particularly commending their courage and professionalism in the aftermath of Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos.
Not only that, in a symbolic gesture of unity and pride, visuals of General Munir and a strong, beautiful Pakistan were displayed at high-profile locations, including New York’s Times Square and notable landmarks in Washington D.C.
Sources said digital trucks travelled across the streets of Washington, broadcasting striking visuals to honour the sacrifices and commitment of Pakistan’s Armed Forces and martyrs.
The contrasting behaviour of diasporas from Pakistan and India during high-profile international visits reflects a stark difference.
This contrast not only highlights differences in diaspora conduct but also raises questions about the broader approaches to dissent, diplomacy, and national representation abroad.
Read more: Field Marshal Asim Munir receives warm welcome from overseas Pakistanis in US
