Pro-Khalistan protesters held demonstrations in Norway during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's official visit, casting a shadow over the diplomatic engagements. The protests, organized by Sikh separatist groups, aimed to draw attention to the Khalistan movement, which seeks a separate Sikh state in India's Punjab region.
Protests in Oslo
Several dozen protesters gathered outside venues where Modi was scheduled to speak, waving flags and chanting slogans in support of Khalistan. The demonstrators accused the Indian government of human rights abuses in Punjab and called for international intervention. Norwegian police maintained a visible presence to ensure order, but the protests remained peaceful.
Diplomatic Impact
The protests come amid strained relations between India and Canada over similar Khalistan-related activities. India has consistently maintained that the Khalistan movement is a separatist threat and has urged host countries to curb such activities. Modi's visit to Norway was intended to strengthen bilateral ties in trade, technology, and climate change, but the protests diverted media attention.
Indian officials downplayed the demonstrations, stating that they did not affect the substantive discussions. However, the images of pro-Khalistan slogans in Oslo made headlines in Indian media, fueling domestic political discourse.
Norway's Response
Norwegian authorities reiterated their commitment to freedom of expression while ensuring security for visiting dignitaries. The foreign ministry emphasized that the protests did not reflect official Norwegian policy and that bilateral relations remain strong.
The incident underscores the persistent challenge Khalistan sympathizers pose to Indian diplomacy abroad, particularly in countries with significant Sikh diaspora populations.
