After WSO, NDP too condemn PM Modi's G7 invitation

On Friday, NDP critic for Public Safety and National Security Jenny Kwan and NDP critic for Foreign Affairs Heather McPherson expressed deep concern and solidarity with the Sikh community following Prime Minister Mark Carney’s inappropriate invitation to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the upcoming G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta.

“This decision is profoundly troubling and deeply hurtful to the Sikh community in Canada,” said Kwan. “It is unconscionable that the government would roll out the red carpet for Prime Minister Modi, whose regime has been directly implicated in the assassination of Canadian Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. This form of transnational repression is a direct threat to the diaspora community and Canada's sovereignty. The government must explain how justice and human rights are being upheld through this invitation.

“At a time when India refuses to cooperate with Canadian authorities and denies responsibility for extrajudicial killings, this move undermines efforts to hold foreign powers accountable for interference and violence in our country.”

On May 21, the World Sikh Organization (WSO) sent a formal letter to Prime Minister Carney, urging him not to extend an invitation to Modi. That letter cited India’s campaign of intimidation and violence against Canadian Sikhs, including RCMP-confirmed evidence of Indian government agents involved in criminal activities on Canadian soil.

“Inviting Prime Minister Modi sends the wrong message—not only to the Sikh community but to all Canadians who believe in the rule of law,” said McPherson.