Ottawa: The Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), in its 2025 report tabled in Parliament, has recognised the threat posed by Khalistani elements in Canada, stating that their activities continue to promote a violent extremist agenda.
The report noted that 2025 marked the 40th anniversary of the bombing of Air India Flight 182, the deadliest terrorist attack in Canadian history, which killed 329 people, most of them Canadians. The suspects were linked to Canada-based Khalistani extremist (CBKE) groups. It added that no CBKE-related attacks occurred in Canada in 2025.
“Ongoing involvement in violent extremist activities by CBKEs continues to pose a national security threat to Canada and to Canadian interests. Some CBKEs are well connected to Canadian citizens who leverage institutions to promote their agenda and collect funds that are diverted toward violent activities,” the report said.
The report also alleged foreign interference in Canadian politics, naming China, Russia, India, Iran, and Pakistan among the main actors involved in espionage and influence operations. It noted that shifting geopolitical dynamics mean these are not the only countries attempting such interference.
Regarding India, the report claimed that it has historically cultivated relationships with politicians, journalists, and members of the Indo-Canadian community to exert influence, including alleged transnational repression activities such as surveillance and coercion. It added that advocacy for Khalistan separatism remains lawful in Canada.
However, recent statements from Canadian officials suggest a shift in assessment under Prime Minister Mark Carney. Earlier this year, officials indicated that India is not currently linked to violent crimes or threats on Canadian soil, a view supported by Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Commissioner Mike Duheme.
In an interview with CTV, Duheme said that while earlier investigations had suggested links to foreign agents, current findings do not clearly connect such activities to any foreign entity.
India-Canada relations had deteriorated sharply following Canada’s allegations that Indian agents were involved in the 2023 killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India strongly denied the आरोप, calling them “politically motivated.”
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