The temple attack in Canada  raises concerns over the safety and rights of the Indian diaspora in Canada

The recent attack on the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton, Canada, has once again brought to light the tense diplomatic situation between India and Canada, with both nations navigating an increasingly complex web of domestic and international issues. The incident, marked by violent clashes involving pro-Khalistani extremists outside the temple, was swiftly condemned by both Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. However, the response from each leader underscores the stark differences in their approach, further straining bilateral ties. Prime Minister Modi’s condemnation of the attack was resolute and pointed. Taking to social media, he expressed his disappointment over the attack, calling it a “deliberate” act against Hindu religious sentiments and stressing that “such acts of violence will never weaken India’s resolve.” PM Modi did not hold back from calling on the Canadian government to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law, sending a clear message that India expects Ottawa to take decisive action to protect its diaspora.

While Trudeau also condemned the temple attack, his statement notably avoided any direct mention of the pro-Khalistani extremists involved. This omission reflects a recurring issue in Trudeau’s handling of India-related tensions within Canada, where a vocal pro-Khalistani community has been implicated in acts perceived as hostile by India. Trudeau’s hesitance to directly address this faction has been a persistent irritant in India-Canada relations, amplifying concerns in New Delhi about Ottawa’s stance on issues impacting Indian diaspora and the wider Hindu community in Canada. The attack also comes at a time when broader diplomatic relations between the two countries are under significant strain, with recent allegations and counter-allegations creating a sense of mutual mistrust. Last September, Trudeau alleged that India might have been involved in the death of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a known Khalistani activist, who was killed under mysterious circumstances in Canada. Although the Canadian Prime Minister has yet to provide concrete evidence for this claim, the accusation has deepened divisions between the two nations, prompting India to refute any such involvement and criticise the Canadian government’s stance. Modi’s recent comments have also touched on an additional point of contention: the alleged surveillance of Indian consular staff in Canada. This has not only raised security concerns but has also highlighted the increasing difficulty Indian diplomats face within Canadian borders. The presence of surveillance, paired with incidents like the temple attack, fuels a perception that pro-Khalistani extremists are becoming emboldened, even as Trudeau’s administration appears reluctant to fully confront these groups. With each new incident – whether it be a temple attack or allegations of state-backed assassination plots – the divide only seems to grow wider, testing the resilience of both countries’ commitments to a constructive relationship.