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Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Canada for the G7 Summit was met with protests from separatist groups in Alberta, with demonstrators staging what they described as an “ambush” protest during his arrival in Kananaskis. Viral videos show a convoy of protesters gathering at Calgary’s Municipal Plaza, shouting slogans and displaying aggressive behavior, including acts involving the Indian national flag.

The protest drew widespread attention on social media and from Canadian journalists, some of whom reported inflammatory language used during the rallies. Independent journalist Daniel Bordman noted that multiple microphones blared simultaneously as demonstrators called for the rejection of Modi’s political agenda and even made provocative calls to India’s territorial integrity. Protesters also reportedly released a new song targeting the Indian government, which Bordman said crossed the boundaries of acceptable public discourse.

The protests occurred as Prime Minister Modi embarked on the second leg of his three-nation tour, following stops in Cyprus and ahead of his visit to Croatia. While in Canada, Modi is expected to hold bilateral discussions with Prime Minister Mark Carney, along with leaders from Germany, Italy, and Ukraine.

Canadian journalist Mocha Bezirgan, who has previously covered these demonstrations, posted that one of the protest organizers was linked to a banned organization in India. Bezirgan himself was reportedly assaulted during a similar protest in Vancouver earlier this month.

The backlash extended beyond political circles, with Sikh institutions in India, including the Takht Sri Patna Sahib, condemning the use of children in these protests and the general tone of the demonstrations. Spokesperson Sudeep Singh stated that the actions were disrespectful and deeply troubling for the global Sikh community.

Despite the disruption, many in the Canadian media praised Prime Minister Carney’s decision to invite Modi, interpreting it as a sign of Ottawa’s growing willingness to push back against extremist elements. Bordman said the shift reflects a broader economic recalibration, with Canada prioritizing trade with India over political appeasement. “There’s more value in working with a democratic, billion-strong India than indulging fringe separatists who sow division,” he said.

India has repeatedly raised concerns about what it perceives as Canada’s tolerance of anti-India elements. Diplomatic relations between the two countries have been strained, but the latest summit may mark a turning point as both nations begin recalibrating their approach amid shared economic and security interests.