India marked the 39th anniversary of the Air India Flight 182 bombing by Khalistani terrorists with a strong message to nations, emphasizing the importance of not overlooking terrorism for political gains. The anniversary of the tragic bombing that claimed 329 lives on June 23, 1985, was commemorated with solemn remembrance and heightened security measures at memorial sites. Pro-Khalistan elements staged rallies, prompting a strong response from the Indo-Canadian community and government officials.
India’s High Commissioner to Ottawa, Sanjay Kumar Verma, emphasized the need for governments worldwide to prioritize human lives over transient political interests. He remarked on the heinous and cowardly nature of the attack, calling for justice for the victims’ families. Meanwhile, secessionist sentiments have been growing in Canada, reminiscent of the 1980s, following the killing of pro-Khalistan figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau acknowledged the Air India bombing as the deadliest terrorist attack in Canadian history but did not specifically mention the role of the Khalistan movement. The opposition Conservatives reiterated their commitment to combating terrorism and preventing such tragedies from recurring. The commemoration highlighted the shared responsibility to condemn terrorism unequivocally.
The Indian missions in Ottawa and Toronto paid homage to the victims, with High Commissioner Verma emphasizing the need for concerted efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and counter their ideologies. The tragic incident, which remains a scar in Canadian aviation history, was perpetrated by Sikh militants in response to ‘Operation Bluestar’ in 1984.
The investigations into the Air India Flight 182 bombing are still active, with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police terming it one of the most complex domestic terrorism probes. The Indian mission in Toronto laid wreaths at memorial sites, underscoring the importance of global cooperation in combating terrorism and standing firm against its glorification.
As India continues to advocate for a united front against terrorism, the anniversary serves as a reminder of the need for unwavering efforts to uphold peace and security in the face of such atrocities.
