Toronto: Pro-holiday slogans were raised by the Sikh community here on Sunday during the celebration of Punjab's mega festival Baisakhi. The day of Baisakhi is celebrated as Khalistan Day by Khalistanist Sikhs. During this celebration, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in his short speech said that the rights of Sikhs will be fully protected in Canada. The Government of Canada will protect the rights and freedoms of the Sikhs at any cost.
Consortium Party of Canada (Tory Party) leader Pierre Poilievre, New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Jagmeet Singh and Toronto Mayor Alivia Chow were present at the celebration along with other dignitaries.
The day of Baisakhi is celebrated as 'Khalsa Day' by Khalsthanists. This day is also the Shakti-Year-Day of Sikhs.
In the speech given during this period, Trudeau said, Canada's biggest strength is its diversity, this should be remembered. That is why we are here. Our greatest strength is that our unity remains intact despite differences. He also posted this message on his X handle. More than 8 lakh Sikhs live in Canada. They have brought their heritage. It will be protected without any discrimination.
He further said, you have every right to practice your religion here without any fear. This is provided for by the Constitution of Canada. We will always stand with you. Trudeau said this in English, saying, 'Shubh Baisakhi, Wahe Gurujika Khalsa, Wahe Guruji Ki Fateh.'