World

Protests Erupt in Calgary as Activists Target Modi During G7 Summit

2025-06-16

Author: Charlotte

Massive Protests Against Indian PM Modi

CALGARY — In a striking display of dissent, over 100 Sikhs gathered in Calgary, brandishing vibrant blue and yellow Khalistan flags while condemning Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of his anticipated arrival at the G7 leaders' summit. The protesters held provocative posters, including one illustrating Modi in a prison jumpsuit and another implying his involvement in the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian Sikh activist.

A Call for Justice

The outrage stems from Prime Minister Mark Carney's decision to invite Modi to the summit. Bakshish Singh Sandhu, co-founder of the advocacy group Sikhs for Justice, used this platform to call for global accountability, stating, "This is an opportunity for the G7 to hold India responsible. We urge them to pressure Modi into allowing a Khalistan referendum, ensuring the people of Punjab attain rights similar to those enjoyed in G7 nations."

Protests Livestreamed to World Leaders

Protester Kuljeet Singh expressed hope that the protests, livestreamed to the G7 summit, would capture the attention of world leaders. "Canada has given Sikhs a unique chance to confront Modi directly over the next 48 hours. Although India is not a G7 member, this is a moment to pressure and isolate him, demanding accountability for crimes against activists globally," Singh stated.

The Khalistan Movement: A Historical Struggle

Activists advocating for an independent Sikh state known as Khalistan have long posed a challenge to Modi's administration, contributing to rising tensions between Canada and India. Previous revelations included accusations from the RCMP regarding the Indian government’s involvement in murder and coercion within Canada. In 2023, former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also implicated Indian agents in Nijjar's murder.

Designated Protest Zones and Broader Causes

The protest took place in downtown Calgary, one of the city's three designated G7 protest zones. Police have urged demonstrators to utilize these areas to avoid clashes. In Banff, a smaller group of activists expressed their dissent, while some protesters showcased their support for Ukraine against Russian aggression, alongside those condemning Israel’s actions in Gaza, and climate advocates highlighting pivotal issues like water conservation.

Security Measures Surrounding the G7 Summit

As leaders from the United States, France, the UK, and other nations convene, heavy security measures have been implemented, including a no-fly zone and extensive area lockdowns around Kananaskis—where the summit is hosted. Carney emphasized the importance of including Modi at the table, despite concerns regarding his invite from the federal NDP and others across Canada.

As discussions unfold among world leaders, the significance of these protests resonates beyond Canadian borders, illuminating ongoing global concerns surrounding human rights and geopolitical accountability.