Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has called upon India to collaborate in an investigation into the murder of a Sikh separatist leader in British Columbia. However, Canada has refused to release the evidence it claims to possess. Trudeau’s remarks, made on Thursday, have incited heated reactions from India, who deny any involvement in the murder.
The international community has been cautious in responding to these allegations, primarily because countries like the United States view India as a counterweight to China’s growing influence. Trudeau emphasized the need to work with India while asserting the importance of upholding the rule of law and protecting Canadian citizens during a press conference at the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
India has suspended new visas for Canadian citizens and has asked Canada to reduce its diplomatic presence in the country. The Indian foreign ministry expressed willingness to review the evidence if provided by Canada. However, Canada’s high commission in India, citing security threats to its diplomats, announced temporary adjustments to staff presence. In response, India claims that the reduction of diplomatic numbers aims to maintain parity between the missions of the two countries.
While Canada has not shared specific information regarding the murder allegations, it is highly unusual for India to impose a blanket suspension of new visas from a Western country. The current tensions between India and Canada have resulted in expulsions of senior diplomats and the issuance of travel advisories. India has stated its willingness to assess any specific information, but so far, there have been no such developments.
The dispute between the two nations stems from longstanding concerns over Sikh separatist movements. India has repeatedly raised objections about Sikh extremist activities in Canada, believing that Ottawa turns a blind eye due to the political influence of Sikh demonstrators. Moreover, the trade relationship between the countries is now at risk, with talks on a proposed trade deal put on hold.
Canada is home to a significant Sikh population, with approximately 770,000 individuals practicing Sikhism according to the 2021 census. Although the Sikh insurgency in Punjab, which sought the establishment of an independent Sikh state called Khalistan, has largely subsided, some small groups in other countries still support this separatist demand. New Delhi remains cautious about the resurgence of the insurgency and its impact on national security.
The current situation threatens trade ties between Canada and India. In recent years, India has become the largest source country for international students in Canada, and the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the two nations has the potential to boost two-way trade substantially. However, the ongoing dispute may hamper economic cooperation with potential ramifications for both countries.
As the investigation and tensions between Canada and India continue, it is essential for the rule of law and diplomatic dialogue to prevail for the sake of justice, security, and mutual understanding.