Toronto: Canadian leaders boycotted a colourful Vaisakhi parade in Vancouver where assassins of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi were glorified despite a warning by authorities against any such acts.

The traditional parade attended by thousands of people did not feature floats depicting Sikh militants which had raised a storm last year but placards honouring the assassins of Gandhi were displayed during yesterday's celebration outside the Gurdwara Dashmesh Darbar Temple in Vancouver.

Next to the temple, a tent was erected showing photos said to be victims of the alleged "Sikh genocide".

Local politicians and city mayor stayed away from the celebration.

Many participants felt it was an opportunity to honour the men who they said had fought against alleged "Sikh oppression".

They also defended placards honouring the assassins of Gandhi and a retired Indian army general as their right to freedom of speech, local media reported.

One participant hoped the display would educate people on the "freedom struggle" of Sikhs and noted that in the UK, where he is from, the pictures of Gandhi's assassins would not be controversial.
Source : PTI