Canada’s House of Commons has passed a new law that, for the first time, would criminalise the public display of flags and symbols of designated terrorist organisations if used to promote hatred.The Combatting Hate Act (Bill C-9) cleared its third reading on March 25, 2026, with a vote of 186-137. It now moves to the Senate for further review before it can become law.The bill introduces a new offence under the Criminal Code for the wilful promotion of hatred against any identifiable group through the public display of symbols linked to terrorist entities listed in Canada. This includes flags associated with Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) and the International Sikh Youth Federation (ISYF), both designated as terrorist organisations in Canada and India.The bill also creates stronger penalties for hate-motivated crimes and creates new offences for intimidating or obstructing people seeking access to places of worship, schools or other religious and cultural sites.Canadian media reports, including those by CBC News, confirm that the legislation targets the public glorification of terrorism through symbols, while protecting communities from hate incidents and blockades at religious places.Indo-Canadian, Jewish and Hindu community groups have welcomed the development, calling it a long-overdue step against years of reported harassment and vandalism. Supporters argue it will make it harder for extremist elements to operate openly.However, the bill has faced opposition from Conservatives and the NDP, who have raised concerns about free speech. Civil liberties groups have also warned of potential overreach, although the offence requires proof of intent to wilfully promote hatred. Private or historical displays are not automatically banned.This development comes as India-Canada relations have improved under Prime Minister Mark Carney, who took office in March 2025. For decades, sections of the Indo-Canadian community have raised concerns about Khalistani extremist activities in Canada, including public displays linked to the Khalistan movement.The Khalistan insurgency in Punjab largely ended in the 1990s in India, but some overseas groups have continued activities that have strained bilateral ties in the past.If passed by the Senate and granted Royal Assent, the bill would mark a significant shift in Canada’s approach to combating hate and the public promotion of terrorist symbols. Its enforcement will depend on how police and courts interpret the provisions in specific cases.