Canada High Commissioner condemns celebration of Indira Gandhi’s assassination

“..appalled by reports of an event in Canada that celebrated the assassination of late Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. There is no place in Canada for hate or for the glorification of violence. I categorically condemn these activities,” Cameron MacKay, High Commissioner for Canada in India tweeted.

A video circulating on social media depicts a parade float in Canada’s Brampton, allegedly organized by Khalistani supporters, showcasing the assassination of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in the country. 

Mint can not independently confirm the veracity of the video.

The float was part of a 5-kilometer-long procession. The video in question is believed to be from a parade held in Brampton by supporters of Khalistan on June 4, which coincided with the upcoming 39th anniversary of Operation Blue Star on June 6.

The video received a strong backlash on social media, with people expressing their condemnation of the parade organized by Khalistan supporters.

The operation aimed to address concerns of weapon stockpiling within the temple premises. However, it faced significant criticism. Several months later, on October 31, 1984, Indira Gandhi was assassinated at her residence in New Delhi by two of her Sikh bodyguards.

On June 6, 1984, the Indian Army, acting upon the orders of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, launched Operation Blue Star to confront Sikh militancy led by Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale in Punjab’s Golden Temple.

The operation aimed to address concerns of weapon stockpiling within the temple premises. However, it faced significant criticism. Several months later, on October 31, 1984, Indira Gandhi was assassinated at her residence in New Delhi by two of her Sikh bodyguards.

Updated: 08 Jun 2023, 09:31 AM IST