Diplomatic crisis deepens as Trudeau accuses India of 'fundamental error' after mutual expulsions

Relations between India and Canada have worsened following the diplomatic fallout over the 2023 murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen and Sikh separatist. Both countries have expelled ambassadors, heightening tensions and drawing accusations of sovereignty violations.

Trudeau's accusations against India
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India of making a "fundamental error" by allegedly supporting criminal activities on Canadian soil. During a press conference in Ottawa, Trudeau labelled New Delhi's actions as "unacceptable" and warned that Canada would not tolerate foreign governments threatening its citizens or breaching international law.

Expulsions of diplomats
The diplomatic row saw both countries expel top diplomats. India expelled six Canadian officials, including the acting High Commissioner Stewart Wheeler. In response, Ottawa took similar measures, citing evidence linking Indian intelligence services to Nijjar's murder. Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly stated that the decision to expel Indian diplomats came after significant evidence was gathered by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).

Background of Hardeep Singh Nijjar
Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who migrated to Canada in 1997 and became a citizen in 2015, was an advocate for Khalistan, a proposed independent Sikh state to be carved out of India. He was wanted by Indian authorities for alleged terrorism and conspiracy to commit murder. His assassination took place in the parking lot of a Sikh temple in Vancouver in June 2023, and four Indian nationals have since been arrested in connection with the killing.

India's response
India has called the allegations "preposterous" and accused Canada of smearing its image for political gain. New Delhi's foreign ministry expressed distrust in the Canadian government's handling of the case and summoned Canadian envoy Wheeler to provide evidence. India also hinted at taking further retaliatory measures against Canada, accusing the Trudeau government of supporting extremism and separatism.

Historical context and related events
The diplomatic spat is not the first between India and Canada. Last year, India temporarily suspended visa services for Canadians and forced Ottawa to reduce its diplomatic presence in the country. In November 2023, a similar case emerged in the United States, where an Indian citizen was charged with plotting an assassination attempt, allegedly linked to Indian government officials.

The escalating tensions between India and Canada have led to significant diplomatic fallout, with both nations standing firm on their positions. With around 770,000 Sikhs living in Canada, the issue remains sensitive, and the future of diplomatic relations between the two countries appears uncertain. AFP