Diplomatic relations between Canada and India have taken a sharp downturn following Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s recent assertion of “credible allegations” of Indian involvement in the assassination of a Canadian citizen. Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Sikh separatist leader, was killed in Canada in June, leading to a diplomatic exchange of expulsions and heightened tensions between the two nations. The situation escalated further, with India temporarily suspending its visa processing centre in Canada, affecting travellers between the countries.
Prime Minister Trudeau’s accusation, made on Monday, sent shockwaves through diplomatic circles. He claimed that there were credible allegations of India’s involvement in Nijjar’s assassination, sparking a flurry of responses from both governments. India categorically denied the claim and termed it absurd.
The BLS Indian Visa Application Center in Canada, responsible for processing visa requests for India, announced the suspension of its services due to operational reasons, affecting Canadian travellers’ ability to obtain visas for India. The timing of this suspension further exacerbates tensions, as it prevents Canadians from travelling to India, a country they frequently visit for tourism and business. In 2021, Canadians represented the fourth largest group of foreign tourists to India, numbering over 80,000.
The Canadian High Commission in New Delhi released a statement clarifying that its consulates in India remain open and operational. The statement also mentioned that some Canadian diplomats had received threats on social media, prompting a review of staffing levels in India. Canada emphasized its expectation for India to ensure the safety and security of its diplomatic and consular staff working in the country.
In a further indication of strained relations, India issued a warning to its citizens about moving to Canada, citing “growing anti-India activities and politically condoned hate-crimes.” This development underlines the deteriorating atmosphere between the two nations.
India and Canada have grappled with historical tensions surrounding Sikh separatist movements, particularly those advocating for an independent Sikh homeland known as Khalistan. While the active insurgency in India ended decades ago, India has remained concerned about Sikh separatist groups operating in Canada and their potential to incite violence or unrest.
The recent diplomatic rift marks a significant strain in Canada-India relations, affecting various aspects, including trade negotiations and defence collaborations. Both nations have shared strategic interests, particularly in countering China’s global ambitions, making the deterioration of relations a matter of concern.
In response to the situation, India’s National Investigation Agency has intensified its crackdown on Sikh insurgents operating within the country. The agency announced rewards for information leading to the arrest of five insurgents, including one believed to be based in Pakistan. These individuals are accused of extorting money and orchestrating targeted killings in India.
The escalating tensions between Canada and India, fueled by allegations of Indian involvement in the assassination of a Canadian citizen, pose a significant challenge to diplomatic relations. The suspension of India’s visa processing services in Canada and the exchange of expulsions underscore the gravity of the situation. Both countries face the complex task of addressing their historical and contemporary differences while preserving essential aspects of their strategic partnership.