In recent times, the diplomatic relations between India and Canada have reached a new peak of tension. On Monday, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs announced the decision to recall its diplomats from Canada. Earlier, Canadian diplomats had been summoned for discussions by the ministry. This leads to the question of how relations between India and Canada became so strained and why India felt compelled to take such a resolute step. Let's delve into the details:
To put it simply, the Indian government's decision to withdraw its diplomats is in reaction to the relentless accusations by Canada regarding the involvement of Indian agents in the killing of the Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, without any concrete evidence. This entire episode dates back to June of the previous year.
Assassination of Nijjar on June 18, 2023
Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani extremist, had been officially recognized as a terrorist by India. He was fatally shot on June 18, 2023, outside a gurdwara in British Columbia. In the wake of his assassination, Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused Indian agents of involvement. India refuted these allegations as 'absurd' and 'politically motivated,' leading to increased diplomatic tension between the two nations.
Modi and Trudeau's Encounter in Laos
Fast forward to 2024, a meeting took place in Laos between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Justin Trudeau. However, there was no substantial discussion between the two leaders. India reiterated its expectations that pro-Khalistan activities would not be promoted in Canada and that stringent action would be taken against entities supporting anti-India violence, extremism, and terrorism from Canadian soil, actions that have yet to be observed.
In a press conference in Laos, Trudeau emphasized the need for collaboration on certain issues, though he did not elaborate on the specifics. 'As I've said numerous times, safeguarding Canadian citizens and upholding the rule of law are among any Canadian government's core responsibilities,' he stated.
India Dismisses Canada's Allegations as 'Absurd'
The investigation into the Nijjar case saw Canadian agencies label the Indian High Commissioner and diplomats as 'persons of interest.' On Monday, a statement from India's Ministry of External Affairs openly criticized Canada for this, branding the accusations as 'ridiculous' and issuing a caution to Canada.
The Ministry of External Affairs pointed out the lack of evidence provided by the Canadian government to support their claims. India accused Trudeau of indulging in vote-bank politics for political gain, while acknowledging that despite their demands, Canada has failed to present definitive evidence of India's involvement in Nijjar's murder. India also suggested that this move by the Trudeau administration might be a deliberate attempt to tarnish India's reputation.
Canadian Diplomat Summoned
In a move further escalating the situation, India summoned Canadian diplomat Stewart Wheeler on Monday, demanding clarification after the recent accusations by the Trudeau government. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs condemned it as a negative step affecting bilateral ties.
During the meeting, Canadian diplomat Stewart Wheeler asserted, 'Canada has presented credible evidence linking the Indian government's agents to the murder of a Canadian citizen on Canadian soil. It's time for India to uphold its commitment and investigate all allegations. Digging into the core of this issue serves the interests of both nations and their people. Canada is ready to collaborate with India.'
'Our Diplomats' Safety at Risk'
The Indian government conveyed the unacceptability of leveling accusations against the Indian High Commissioner and other diplomats without supporting evidence. They stated that such allegations have led to an environment fostering extremism and violence, thereby endangering the safety of their diplomats.
An official statement from the Indian government remarked, 'We have no confidence in the current Canadian government's commitment to ensure the safety of our diplomats. Thus, the Government of India has decided to recall the High Commissioner and other diplomats and officials.'
