CHANDIGARH, India (Diya TV) — A new report by the Canadian Security Intelligence Service has identified Canada-based Khalistani extremists as an ongoing national security threat. The agency said a small group continues to promote and support violent activities, even as most advocacy for Khalistan remains peaceful and lawful.
In its 2025 public report tabled in Parliament, CSIS said some individuals in Canada use the country as a base to plan, fundraise, and promote violence, mainly targeting India. The agency introduced the term “Canada-based Khalistani extremists” for the first time in a public document.
CSIS placed these individuals under politically motivated violent extremism. This category includes actors who support violence to create new political systems or reshape existing ones.
CSIS reported no Khalistani extremist-linked attacks in Canada in 2025. However, it warned that risks persist due to ongoing planning, financing, and support for violent acts abroad. Some individuals also maintain connections with people inside Canada. These links help them access resources and institutions to further their agenda. At the same time, CSIS drew a clear line between extremism and peaceful activism. It stated that nonviolent support for Khalistan does not fall under terrorism laws in Canada.
The report also referenced the 40th anniversary of the Air India Flight 182 bombing, one of the deadliest terror attacks in Canadian history. The bombing killed 329 people, most of them Canadian citizens. CSIS linked the attack to members of Canada-based Khalistani extremist groups.
Beyond extremism, the report identified foreign interference as a major national security challenge. It named countries such as China, India, Russia, Iran, and Pakistan as key actors involved in espionage and influence operations. CSIS alleged that some of these countries engage in surveillance and coercion within Canada. The report claimed such actions aim to suppress dissent and influence diaspora communities.
It also accused India of building ties with political figures, journalists, and community members in Canada. According to CSIS, these relationships may contribute to what it described as transnational repression.
Officials offered mixed reactions to the report’s findings. Mike Duheme, commissioner of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, supported parts of the assessment. However, he said, investigators have not found evidence directly linking threats to India. CSIS Director Dan Rogers said the report aims to inform Canadians about evolving security risks. He urged cooperation to address emerging threats and protect public safety.
The report comes at a time of strained relations between Canada and India. Tensions escalated after the 2023 killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia. Canadian officials raised concerns about possible foreign involvement in the killing. India rejected the allegations and called them politically motivated. It also criticized Canada for tolerating separatist elements.
CSIS noted that Canada added 12 new entities to its terrorist list in 2025. These include criminal networks and extremist groups such as the Bishnoi Gang and ISIS affiliates. The agency said the threat landscape continues to evolve rapidly. It emphasized the need for vigilance against both domestic and international risks.
