India, May 5 -- India on Monday lodged a protest with Canadian authorities over the "threatening language" and unacceptable imagery of the Indian leadership featured at a parade held in Toronto, reflecting the strains in bilateral ties over the activities of pro-Khalistan elements.

A speech made at the Khalsa Day parade in the Greater Toronto Area on Sunday called for the removal of Indo-Canadians from Canada. The parade featured floats with pro-Khalistan propaganda, pro-Pakistan banners and imagery targeting Indian leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Indian side lodged a protest with the Canadian high commission in New Delhi, people familiar with the matter said on condition of anonymity.

"We conveyed our concerns in ...