Canberra
A new report has urged the Five Eyes intelligence alliance — comprising Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and Canada — to join forces in dismantling Khalistani extremist networks worldwide. The report called for stricter monitoring of suspicious non-profit activities, enhanced intelligence sharing, and clear political distancing from separatist lobbies.
The report stressed that Khalistani extremism is no longer just an “Indian issue” but a global security concern. It highlighted Canada’s recent acknowledgement of banned groups like Babbar Khalsa International and the International Sikh Youth Federation, which Ottawa now classifies as national security threats. This shift comes through Canada’s 2025 Assessment of Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Risks, a key policy document marking a tougher stance on extremism.
Amit Sarwal, co-founder of The Australia Today, wrote that Canada’s recognition must serve as a call to action for its allies. “Canada has broken the silence. Now it is time for Australia and other democracies to follow suit,” he said. Australia, with its large Indian diaspora and close ties with New Delhi, is seen as a natural leader in this collective effort.
The report added that Canada’s 2024 annual security review had already warned of “Canada-based Khalistani extremists” posing a threat to its own national security. India has long accused Ottawa of sheltering such groups, and the recent acknowledgement is viewed as a diplomatic breakthrough.
The report concluded that Five Eyes nations must draw a line between free speech and violent extremism, working together to safeguard pluralism and international security.
