History, as the saying goes, is written by the victors. In the current geopolitical landscape, narratives are shaped not merely by facts but by the strategic interests of dominant powers. The West’s tacit support for the Khalistani extremist movement fits into this mold, highlighting a broader agenda aimed at countering India’s growing influence. This strategy leverages ethnic and religious divides, not for resolution, but as a tool to manage and, in some cases, destabilize.
The West has a long history of backing separatist movements when it aligns with their strategic goals. From Kosovo to Ukraine, these interventions have often prioritized geopolitical advantage over regional stability. The Khalistan movement, which advocates for a separate Sikh state, has found safe havens in countries like Canada, the UK, and the US. These nations, despite their strong rhetoric against terrorism post-9/11, have been notably lenient toward Khalistani extremism. This contradiction raises a crucial question: why is a movement with a history of violence and terrorism tolerated, if not subtly encouraged, in the West?
The answer lies in the West’s broader strategy to maintain leverage over India. As a rising global power with a burgeoning economy and independent foreign policy, India poses a challenge to the established Western-led international order. A narrative that portrays India as unstable and conflict-ridden serves to dampen investor confidence and slow its economic ascent. By allowing Khalistani extremism to thrive, Western nations can keep India embroiled in internal conflicts, thereby reducing its focus and resources on global ambitions.
Did Gurpatwant Singh Pannun just confirm that his banned terrorist organisation Sikhs for Justice has been 'communicating' with Trudeau's office for the last 2 to 3 years?
— Devika Chopra 🖊 (@ilah108) October 17, 2024
Yes he did. Pannun is a designated terrorist in India.
1- He runs Sikhs for Justice, an organisation… pic.twitter.com/23NUcBpuEZ
Recent events underscore this dynamic. The diplomatic standoff between India and Canada, following the alleged killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, has revealed the depth of Western complicity. Nijjar, a wanted terrorist in India, was openly championing the Khalistan cause in Canada, organizing referendums and inciting violence. Yet, Canadian authorities, under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, have not only tolerated these activities but also seem to use them as a political tool to secure Sikh votes domestically.
This political calculus is not limited to Canada. Figures like Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who openly incite violence against India, continue to operate freely in the US. Pannun has threatened to bomb Air India flights and attack Indian institutions, yet he enjoys a degree of protection under the guise of freedom of speech. This selective application of democratic principles reveals the West’s willingness to shield extremism when it serves their geopolitical objectives.
The implications for India are profound. The portrayal of India as a nation grappling with separatism undermines its image as a stable, emerging economy and a leader of the Global South. It also risks alienating the Indian diaspora, particularly Hindus in Canada, who have faced increasing hostility. Recent attacks on Hindu temples and community centers by Khalistani mobs, coupled with the lackluster response from Canadian authorities, highlight the growing insecurity among these communities.
The West’s double standards become even more glaring when viewed in the context of its broader counter-terrorism policies. While separatist movements in other parts of the world are swiftly condemned and countered, Khalistani extremism is often dismissed as a matter of free expression. This hypocrisy not only undermines the global fight against terrorism but also emboldens extremist elements, risking long-term instability.
India must respond decisively to this challenge. Labeling Canada as a state sponsor of terrorism would be a strong initial step, sending a clear message to the international community that India will not tolerate foreign complicity in its internal affairs. Beyond this, India must actively work to reshape the narrative, framing these interventions as neo-colonial attempts to undermine its sovereignty. By doing so, India can rally support from other nations in the Global South, many of whom have faced similar interference.
In an increasingly multipolar world, India’s rise is inevitable. However, the road to global prominence will require navigating and countering these calculated strategies. The West’s Khalistan card is not just a challenge for India; it is a test of its resilience and resolve to assert its rightful place on the world stage.
The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of Khalsa Vox or its members.
