India expressed strong criticism on Friday regarding the Canadian parliament's observance of a "one-minute silence" in memory of Khalistan extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was fatally shot in Surrey, British Columbia, in June last year.
"We strongly oppose any actions that provide political legitimacy to extremism and promote violence," stated Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the External Affairs Ministry.
In an unprecedented move, the Canadian parliament observed a moment of silence two days ago to commemorate Nijjar.
Relations between the two nations became strained after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged in September last year a potential involvement of Indian agents in Nijjar's killing, an accusation dismissed by New Delhi as baseless.
India has consistently highlighted Canada's issue of harbouring pro-Khalistan elements who operate freely from Canadian territory.
Recently, Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra reiterated India's primary concern with Canada: its allowance of political space for anti-India elements that endorse extremism and violence.
India has repeatedly conveyed its serious apprehensions to Canada and expects Ottawa to take decisive measures against these elements, Kwatra emphasized.
Nijjar, whom India has designated as a terrorist, was fatally shot outside a gurdwara in British Columbia on June 18 last year.
The investigation into Nijjar's murder is being conducted by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
