New Delhi dismisses the Canadian claims of Indian involvement in the Nijjar case as politically driven
The already tense relations between India and Canada have hit a new low, with both countries expelling each other’s diplomats. New Delhi expelled six Canadian diplomats, including Acting High Commissioner Stewart Ross Wheeler after Ottawa’s expulsion of ‘targeted’ Indian diplomats. These diplomats were allegedly involved in ‘violent criminal activity in Canada.’ The situation deteriorated after Trudeau accused Indian intelligence agents of being linked to the Nijjar’s murder in British Columbia in 2023. During a press conference, Trudeau, announced the expulsion of six Indian diplomats from Canadian soil, citing their involvement in a ‘targeted campaign’ against Canadian citizens. India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has responded with forceful rebuttal, describing the allegations as ‘preposterous imputations.’ The MEA criticised Canada’s decision to expel the Indian diplomats, dismissing the accusations as politically motivated and linked to the Trudeau government’s domestic challenges. India on its part has expelled six Canadian diplomats to leave the country by October 19, 2024, and announced the withdrawal of its High Commissioner from Canada.
The root cause of the conflict lies in the ongoing issue of Sikh separatism and Canada’s handling of the Khalistan movement. Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a prominent Khalistan supporter, was a Canadian citizen who had long advocated for an independent Sikh state. His murder in 2023 remains a contentious issue, with Canadian authorities suspecting the involvement of Indian agents. India, however, has consistently denied any role in the killing and has accused Canada of providing a safe haven for extremist elements that threaten India’s national security. It is rather unfortunate that two friendly countries should snap diplomatic relations with each other. Justin Trudeau’s electoral compulsions, with elections just a year away, could be behind his recent actions. Justin Trudeau’s perceived support for Sikh separatists, particularly those advocating for a Khalistan, stems from a complex blend of domestic political considerations and Canada’s multicultural policies. Trudeau’s Liberal Party has historically sought the support of the Sikh diaspora, a significant and politically active community in Canada, which includes a segment advocating for Sikh rights and in some cases, Khalistan. By engaging with Sikh community leaders, including some who may have Khalistani sympathies, Trudeau aims to secure votes in regions with a strong Sikh presence. This standoff could affect many areas where people in both countries could be net sufferers. Trade negotiations, immigration policies, and cultural exchanges between the two countries would indeed be affected. The expulsion of diplomats and withdrawal of ambassadors signifies more than just diplomatic posturing; it represents India’s sovereignty, security, and the role of foreign governments in its domestic affairs. With both sides showing no signs of backing down, the road to reconciliation appears to be fraught with challenges.
