Toronto float targets PM Modi, India raises it with Canada

New Delhi: Following the use of a controversial float targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a Khalsa Day parade in a Greater Toronto neighbourhood, India again called upon the Canadian govt to stop providing criminal and secessionist elements “a safe haven and political space in Canada’’.
Ministry of External Affairs said India continues to remain concerned about the security of its diplomatic representatives in Canada and expects local authorities to ensure that they are able to carry out their responsibilities without fear.
“As you are aware, we have repeatedly raised our strong concerns regarding the violent imagery being used by extremist elements in Canada against our political leadership. Last year, a float depicting the assassination of our former PM was used in a procession,” said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.
He was speaking in response to queries regarding a float in the Nagar Kirtan parade at Malton in Canada. “Celebration and glorification of violence should not be a part of any civilised society.
“Democratic countries which respect the rule of law should not allow intimidation by radical elements in the name of freedom of expression,” said the official.
India had last month summoned the Canadian deputy high commissioner to register a strong protest against the raising of anti-India slogans at an even attended by PM Justin Trudeau.