The Consulate General of India in Toronto has announced that the 39th annual memorial service for the victims of the Air India flight 182 bombing will take place this Sunday, June 23rd, at South Lawns, Queen’s Park, Toronto, from 12-1 pm. This event is open to the public, and attendees are asked to respect the solemnity of the occasion.
Air India flight 182 was tragically bombed on June 23, 1985, leading to the deaths of 329 individuals, including 86 children. This attack, carried out by Sikh extremists, remains one of the deadliest terrorist acts in aviation history. The flight, bound from Montreal to Delhi, exploded off the coast of Ireland, marking a dark day for both Canada and India.
The Consulate General’s statement reads: “India has always been at the forefront of the fight against terrorism and has opposed the justification and glorification of terrorism. 23 June 2024 marks the 39th anniversary of the bombing of Air India flight 182 (Kanishka), which resulted in the death of 329 innocent victims, including 86 children, and remains one of the most heinous acts of terror in civil aviation.
We have always stood firmly with the families of the victims.
The annual memorial service is being held from 12-1 pm, 23 June 2024 at South Lawns, Queen’s Park, Toronto. This event is open for public participation. The solemnity of the occasion may be respected during the memorial service at all times.”
Recent tensions between Canada and India have heightened following accusations from Canadian authorities regarding the involvement of Indian agents in the killing of a Sikh leader in British Columbia. This incident has strained diplomatic relations, leading to a series of retaliatory measures and heightened rhetoric between the two nations.
At the same time, Despite the ongoing political dispute, the economic ties between Canada and India have demonstrated resilience, without disruption in trade relations. Both nations continue to engage in substantial bilateral trade, highlighting the importance of economic interdependence even amid diplomatic challenges.