Canada Closely Monitoring Situation in Punjab Amid Crackdown on Radical Preacher

Foreign Minister Melanie Joly stated that Canada is “very closely” monitoring the events in Punjab and will continue to address the concerns of the community amid the Punjab Police’s crackdown on radical preacher Amritpal Singh.

During a House of Commons session on Thursday, Joly responded to a question raised by Indian-Canadian MP Iqwinder S Gaheer.

“We are aware of the evolving situation in Punjab, and we are following it very closely. We look forward to a return to a more stable situation,” she said.

Joly assured that Canadians can always rely on the federal government to ensure that the concerns of various community members are addressed.

Gaheer informed the House about the widespread suspension of internet access currently taking place in Punjab and asked Joly to provide an update on the situation there. External Affairs Ministry’s spokesperson Arindam Bagchi, responding to questions about comments made by foreign leaders and lawmakers regarding the action against Amritpal Singh, urged foreign residents not to believe “inaccurate and motivated narratives” being spread by some elements on social media.

“Authorities in Punjab are undertaking operations to apprehend a fugitive. Information regarding that operation is being shared by authorities concerned on a regular basis,” the spokesperson in New Delhi stated.