A recent survey has revealed that a significant majority of Canadians support stronger government action to prevent foreign separatist movements from operating within the country. The poll, conducted by Leger 360, found that 72% of Canadians believe stricter policies should be implemented to curb the activities of separatist groups such as the Khalistani movement. Additionally, 54% of respondents expressed direct opposition to the movement’s presence in Canada.
The survey, which sampled 1,515 voting-aged Canadians between December 13 and December 16, was weighted to reflect Canada’s population according to census data. It carries a margin of error of approximately 2.52%, 19 times out of 20.
Growing Concerns Amid Recent Unrest
The Khalistan separatist movement has been largely championed by North America-based organizations such as Sikhs for Justice, which the Indian government has classified as an “unlawful association.”
Concerns over the movement escalated following recent protests that saw Khalistani activists storm Hindu temple properties in Brampton, Ontario. These events triggered counter-protests and a pro-Indian demonstration in the area, highlighting the divisive nature of the issue within Canadian society.
Divided Opinions on Sikh Separatism
The poll also shed light on the broader public perception of Sikh Canadians in the context of the Khalistan movement. While 30% of respondents believe Sikh Canadians face undue scrutiny due to the actions of a small minority involved in separatist activities, an equal percentage disagreed with this sentiment.
Public support for Khalistani separatists in Canada remains low, with only 10% of Canadians expressing support for their operations, and just 2% indicating strong support.
Ontario, home to the country’s largest South Asian population, reported the highest level of support among provinces, yet only 11% of Ontarians endorsed the movement. Census data from 2021 shows that Ontario, particularly the Greater Toronto Area, houses a significant South Asian demographic, with Brampton alone recording over 52% of its population as South Asian.
A Growing Debate in Canada
As discussions over foreign separatist movements continue to unfold, the survey results suggest that while many Canadians are aware of the issue, only a minority actively engage with it. However, the strong support for stricter government policies signals a clear desire for Ottawa to address concerns over foreign-led activism within Canadian borders.
With diplomatic tensions between Canada and India still running high, how the federal government navigates this complex issue could have lasting implications on both domestic policy and international relations.
