SOURCE: AFI
In recent geopolitical discussions, experts from India have suggested leveraging Canada’s lenient stance towards the Khalistani issue. During a podcast, a notable expert proposed that India should encourage fake asylum seekers, particularly from Punjab, to exploit the already overwhelmed Canadian asylum system. This suggestion aims to address two key concerns: straining Canada’s asylum infrastructure and reducing the presence of extremists in India.
Canada has experienced a significant increase in asylum claims, putting immense pressure on its immigration system. According to recent statistics, Mexico is the leading source of asylum seekers in Canada, followed by a diverse array of countries. India ranks fourth, with approximately 9,100 asylum seekers, many originating from the Punjab region. This surge in asylum seekers has strained Canadian cities, pushing temporary shelters to their limits and stretching local budgets.
The Khalistani movement, which advocates for an independent Sikh homeland in Punjab, has been a longstanding issue in India. While the movement has lost significant ground in India, it still finds support among certain sections of the Sikh diaspora, particularly in countries like Canada. This support has occasionally led to tensions between India and these nations, as India perceives this backing as a threat to its sovereignty and security.
The geopolitical expert’s proposal revolves around encouraging fake asylum seekers to claim persecution based on alleged Khalistani affiliations. By doing so, these individuals would assert that they cannot return to India due to fears of reprisal. This strategy serves a dual purpose:
- Straining Canadian Resources: An influx of asylum seekers claiming Khalistani affiliations would add to the existing pressures on Canada’s immigration system. As Canadian cities grapple with record numbers of newcomers, the addition of more claimants would further strain resources, pushing shelters beyond their capacity and stretching budgets even thinner.
- Reducing Extremist Elements: Encouraging fake asylum seekers with supposed Khalistani ties could potentially reduce the number of extremists within India. By relocating these individuals to Canada, India could alleviate some of the internal security concerns associated with the Khalistani movement. This could contribute to a more stable domestic environment.
As geopolitical experts continue to debate this issue, it remains to be seen whether such a strategy will be pursued or if alternative solutions will be sought to address the Khalistani question.