Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Friday asked Canada to rein in radical elements such as Khalistani separatists from spreading hatred in India.
Speaking to Jalandhar-born Canadian MP Rameshwar Singh Sangha — who called on him here — Singh said radical elements, which he said included supporters of the Khalistani movement, while having no impact on the Canadian political environment, could still influence people in India and vitiate the atmosphere here.
Met Jalandhar born Canadian MP @sangharamesh, discussed issues of NRI concerns, assured him of all help in resolving them. pic.twitter.com/EhaiXsfXFT
— Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) July 21, 2017
"Unfortunately, these elements were successful in spreading their divisive messages in India through social media," he said, calling upon the Canadian government to crack down on these forces and ensure they do not have a free run on social media and other public platforms.
The chief minister said his government was trying to revive Punjab's economy by wooing industry and investment into the state but such efforts can get derailed by the nefarious designs of radical elements operating from outside India.
"These handful of people, with their vicious propaganda, were negating the efforts of all the NRIs, including Punjabis, who were contributing immensely to the development and progress of India and Canada," he said.
Singh had previously accused Canadian Defence Minister Harjit Singh Sajjan of supporting radical Sikh elements and Khalistanis in Canada and had even refused to meet him during his visit to India this past April.
Some radical Sikh groups prevented Singh from visiting Canada before Punjab elections after they had a warrant against him over atrocities committed during the days of militancy.
The chief minister also discussed some issues concerning NRIs and promised to protect interests of the Indians in Canada after Sangha, who represents Brampton Centre riding, urged the chief minister to take measures to protect them.
