Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s stance on Khalistani separatists has strained Canada’s relations with India. His assertion that Indian operatives were behind the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani Canadian shot dead in British Columbia, has escalated tensions between the two nations. Despite his repeated claims, Trudeau has not provided evidence of India’s involvement. Consequently, India has dismissed these allegations as “absurd” and politically motivated.
India’s decision to sever diplomatic ties with Canada is a justified response to Trudeau’s move to declare Indian envoys in Canada as “persons of interest.” Threatening India’s High Commission has created a precarious situation for diplomatic relations. India has every right to protect its representatives and respond firmly against any diplomatic actions that encourage separatism or terrorism.
Following India’s response, Canada expelled its diplomats from India, leading to a significant diplomatic rift. India has also issued travel advisories for its citizens in Canada, reflecting the deteriorating relations.
Trudeau’s actions have provided patronage to Khalistani terrorists seeking to carve out a distinct Sikh state in India. This reflects a troubling trend where political leaders prioritize domestic gains over international responsibilities. By catering to a specific voter base that supports Khalistani sentiments, he risks fostering division and unrest within Canada.
Moreover, Trudeau has undermined India’s sovereignty and endorsed sentiments that have historically led to violence and terrorism. Khalistani separatism is rooted in a painful chapter of Indian history marked by the Pakistan-sponsored insurgency of the 1980s and early 1990s. By shielding individuals like Nijjar under the guise of free speech, Trudeau alienates India, a key ally of the West in trade and geopolitical stability.
It is quite clear the Trudeau government is unlikely to scale down the anti-India rhetoric. However, the Modi government must keep all the diplomatic channels open, outside the current dispensation in Canada where many are opposed to Trudeau’s puerile behaviour and nefarious foreign and domestic policy. India mustn’t throw the baby out with the bath water, for the sake of bilateral relations in a post-Trudeau Canada.