Canadian Parliament rejects resolution to label 1984 anti-Sikh riots as genocide

Toronto: Canada’s Parliament failed to pass a resolution recognizing the 1984 anti-Sikh violence in India as “genocide.” The proposal, introduced by New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Jagmeet Singh, sought acknowledgment of the atrocities and urged the Indian government to prosecute those responsible.

The resolution was presented before the House of Commons’ Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development. Singh emphasized that such recognition would stand as a gesture of solidarity with victims of the violence, which erupted after the assassination of then-Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Singh had filed notice of the proposal on June 19.

The committee, chaired by Liberal Party MP Ali Ehsassi, voted to postpone debate on the resolution. Nine members supported the adjournment, while two opposed it, effectively stalling the motion.

The NDP launched a campaign earlier this year, committing to push for official recognition of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots as genocide ahead of the 40th anniversary of the violence.