Canadian intelligence agency confirms Khalistani extremists are operating on its soil

"In particular, real and perceived Khalistani extremism emerging from Canada continues to drive Indian foreign interference activities in Canada," read a report issued by the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS).

Also Read: Canada’s intelligence report labelling India ‘perpetrator of foreign interference’ overshadows diplomatic thaw post Modi-Carney meet

The intelligence service placed the incident under the politically motivated violent extremism (PMVE) category.

"Politically motivated violent extremism (PMVE) encourages the use of violence to establish new political systems or new structures or norms within existing systems," the intelligence agency said.

"PMVE actors engage in the planning, financing and facilitating of attacks, globally, in order to establish new political systems or entities," it said.

CSIS said since the mid-1980s, the PMVE threat in Canada has manifested primarily through Canada-based Khalistani extremists (CBKEs) 'seeking to use and support violent means to create an independent nation state called Khalistan, largely within Punjab, India'.

CSIS said it continues to monitor emerging threats and contribute to the Government of Canada's terrorist listing process.

Modi Meets Canadian PM

Indian PM Narendra Modi and his Canadian counterpart Mark Carney met for the first time on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis and agreed to take calibrated and constructive steps to restore stability in the relationship, beginning with the early return of High Commissioners to each other’s capitals.

The bond between the two nations had touched a low point during the tenure of former PM Justin Trudeau following the killing of pro-Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

"This was the first in-person interaction between the two leaders since Prime Minister Carney assumed office following Canada’s recent general elections," the Indian government said in a statement.

"The meeting provided an opportunity for both sides to hold frank and forward-looking discussions on the state of India-Canada relations and the way ahead," the statement said.

CSIS Report Labels India As ‘Perpetrator Of Foreign Interference’

In its report, CSIS accused  India of engaging in “transnational repression” — a term used to describe actions by a foreign state aimed at silencing or intimidating dissenters abroad.

"Canada must remain vigilant about continued foreign interference conducted by the Government of India, not only within ethnic, religious and cultural communities but also in Canada’s political system. CSIS will continue to observe and assess the nature and extent of India’s activities in Canada," the report said.