India has raised concerns over threats issued by secessionist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) against Air India flights to and from Canada. SFJ's general-counsel Gurpatwant Pannun warned Sikhs in Punjabi not to fly Air India after November 19, citing danger to their lives. India's High Commissioner to Ottawa, Sanjay Kumar Verma, stated plans to address the threat with Canadian authorities, citing violations of the Chicago Convention. The incident echoes the tragic 1985 Air India flight 182 bombing by Khalistani terrorists, prompting India to seek enhanced security measures for its flights.

India's High Commissioner to Canada, Sanjay Kumar Verma, reiterated New Delhi's rejection of Canada's allegations of Indian government involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Speaking in an interview with Canadian platform The Globe and Mail, Mr. Verma called for concrete evidence, criticizing the impact of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's public statements on the ongoing police probe. He emphasized that diplomatic conversations are protected and questioned the lack of evidence. The Indian envoy highlighted the need for professional communication to repair diplomatic relations and urged Canada to address Khalistan supporters using its soil. A new poll shows most Canadians want the evidence behind Trudeau's accusations to be made public.      

Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, leader of the banned Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) outfit, released a video warning Sikh travelers against boarding Air India flights on November 19. Pannun threatened their lives, coinciding with the cricket World Cup final day. Security measures have been escalated following the threat, with authorities taking preventive action to ensure passengers' safety. Pannun, previously targeted by India's National Investigation Agency, continues to raise concerns, prompting heightened vigilance and precautions among the public and airport authorities.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed optimism about resolving the diplomatic tensions between India and Canada at the Hindustan Times Leadership Summit 2023. Acknowledging freedom of speech, he emphasized the need to prevent violent actions and separatist propaganda. The tensions arose after Canada expelled an Indian diplomat over a probe into Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing. India suspended Canadian visa services, demanding parity in diplomatic presence. Jaishankar's call for diplomacy reflects efforts to find a resolution amidst the strained relations.

The High Commission of India in London joyously commemorated the Foundation Day of 10 Indian states, including Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala. The grand event featured mesmerizing cultural performances and a delectable array of cuisines from these diverse states. A vibrant cross-section of the Indian diaspora community enthusiastically participated, underscoring the strong unity and brotherhood among them. The celebration showcased the rich cultural heritage of India, fostering a sense of togetherness and pride among attendees.

Several groups of Indian travelers, scheduled to visit the All In Print China 2023 exhibition, were barred from boarding their flights to China on October 31. Immigration authorities cited invalid group visas without explanation, causing financial losses for travelers and affecting business opportunities. The sudden denial raised concerns about future travel plans and business investments. The All India Federation of Master Printers filed a complaint, urging clarity on the situation. Travel agencies also faced financial liabilities due to the unexpected visa denials, prompting calls for transparent communication from authorities.

India's External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, met Italian President Sergio Mattarella and senior leaders in Rome, discussing ways to enhance bilateral cooperation in defense, cyber security, and counter-terrorism. Jaishankar, invited by his Italian counterpart Antonio Tajani, signed agreements on Mobility and Migration Partnership and Cultural Cooperation. Talks also focused on India's successful G20 Presidency, Italy's upcoming G7 Presidency, and shared views on global issues. Italy expressed support for India's initiatives, marking a significant step in strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations. Discussions encompassed West Asia, Ukraine conflict, and the Indo-Pacific landscape, enhancing mutual understanding.

Air India outlined plans to expand its fleet and network over the next six months, including inducting over 30 new aircraft, adding over 400 weekly flights and starting service to four new international destinations. Between now and March 2024, Air India aims to add 30 wide-body and narrow-body planes, including six A350s, four B777s and 20 A320 neos. This will enable 200+ new weekly flights domestically and internationally. Earlier this year, Air India placed a massive 470 aircraft order with Airbus and Boeing. CEO Campbell Wilson said modernizing the fleet and expanding the route network are top priorities amid rapidly growing travel demand.

Nearly 97,000 Indians were arrested for illegally crossing into the US between October 2022-September 2023, a five-fold rise in recent years per US Customs data. Most were from Punjab, Gujarat. 30,010 were caught at the Canada border, 41,770 at Mexico. Single adults make up the largest category. In fiscal year 2023, 84,000 Indian adults crossed into the US illegally. As many as 730 unaccompanied minors were among the arrested people. Senator Lankford said Indians take 4 flights, bus with cartels to border. (Representative Image)

The United States expresses deep concern over the vicious stabbing of 24-year-old Indian student Varun Raj Pucha at an Indiana gym. Varun, a Computer Science student, was attacked by assailant Jordan Andrade, sustaining critical injuries. The motive is under investigation, and Andrade has been arrested, facing charges of attempted murder. The US State Department conveys distress, wishing Varun a full recovery, while deferring inquiries to local law enforcement. Varun remains on life support with severe neurological impairment, raising concerns of potential permanent disability and vision loss. [ Representative Image ]