Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney marked 40 years since the Air India Flight 182 bombing, calling it Canada’s worst terrorist attack. In a message on X, Carney honoured the 268 Canadian victims and reaffirmed Canada’s firm stance against terrorism.
Air India Bombing: Canada’s Deadliest Terror Attack
“Forty years ago, Canada faced the deadliest terrorist attack in its history. Today, we mourn the 268 Canadian victims of the Air India bombing and all who have been killed in acts of terrorism, a sombre reminder of our commitment to fight violent extremism and keep Canadians safe,” Carney wrote. He called the 1985 attack a painful reminder of the ongoing fight against terrorism.
40 years ago, Canada faced the deadliest terrorist attack in its history.
Today, we mourn the 268 Canadian victims of the Air India bombing and all who have been killed in acts of terrorism — a sombre reminder of our commitment to fight violent extremism and keep Canadians… https://t.co/05nBiuLkYK
— Mark Carney (@MarkJCarney) June 23, 2025
On June 23, 1985, Air India Flight 182, also known as Kanishka, exploded mid-air near Cork, Ireland, killing all 329 people onboard. The Babbar Khalsa, a Khalistani terrorist group based in Canada, orchestrated the attack. Most of the victims were Canadians of Indian origin.
Leaders Call for Global Cooperation
As Canada observed its National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism, Carney vowed to strengthen global cooperation to prevent future attacks. He said, “Canada’s new government unequivocally stands against terrorism, and we will deliver on our mandate of change to keep communities safe.”
Meanwhile, opposition leader Pierre Poilievre also paid tribute to the victims. “Today we remember the 329 innocent lives lost in the Air India Flight 182 bombing — most of them Canadians. It remains the worst mass murder in our history,” he wrote on X. Poilievre assured that Canada’s Conservatives remain committed to fighting terrorism both at home and abroad.
Air India Memorial Ceremony
At the Ahakista Memorial in Ireland, leaders from Canada, India, and Ireland came together to honour the victims. Canadian Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree, India’s Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, and Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin laid wreaths. Additionally, schoolchildren and local residents attended, offering flowers and music as a tribute.
During the ceremony, Puri emphasised the need for stronger cooperation between India and Canada. He said, “India stands ready to do more. Our security agencies, intelligence apparatus, and diplomatic channels are fully committed to partnering with the world to ensure that such tragedies are never repeated.”
Finally, Irish officials, including County Cork Mayor Joe Carroll, joined in laying wreaths to honour the victims.
