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2w ago

Alberta Separation Referendum on Oct. 19 Overlaps With Khalistan Event, Raising Security and Diplomatic Strains

Law enforcement warnings plus evidence of organised-crime links pose a test for policing, with implications for Ottawa–New Delhi relations.

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Supporters of the Alberta separation movement fly flags in Edmonton. It’s a dangerous moment to flirt with leaving, given America’s imperialist designs on Canadian territory, the editorial board writes.
Separatists waves the Alberta flag by the roadside during an event advocating for Alberta's separation from Canada in Medicine Hat, southwestern Alberta, on September 23. (AFP)
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, shown in Edmonton on Wednesday, has characterized the nine ballot proposals as a tool for leverage over Ottawa.

Overview

  • The provincial referendum set for Oct. 19 asks whether Alberta should remain in Canada or commence the constitutional steps toward a later binding referendum on separation.
  • A separate Sikhs for Justice Khalistan 'referendum' event planned for Oct. 18 in Edmonton uses similar referendum language and has created public confusion between the two campaigns.
  • The RCMP has issued duty-to-warn notices to Khalistan activists and says its investigations have identified links to homicides, extortion and organised crime that complicate policing and public safety.
  • Polls show roughly 70% of Albertans say they will vote to remain in Canada, and Premier Danielle Smith has pledged she will not call another separation referendum while she remains premier if the remain option wins.
  • The province has added nine other ballot questions on immigration and constitutional powers and launched a $4-million advertising campaign, while legal, economic and Indigenous consultation hurdles would make any path to secession complex and costly.