India and Canada have recently expelled their top diplomats due to tensions over the assassination of a Sikh separatist in Canada. This incident marks a new low in their historically friendly relationship, with past disagreements never escalating to this level. The confrontation stems from the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Sikh leader labeled a terrorist by India, and the subsequent accusations of Indian agents’ involvement by Canadian police.
Analysts view this event as a significant shift in Canada-India relations, indicating a breakdown in ties fostered by former prime minister Stephen Harper’s government. The Trudeau administration’s handling of the situation has attracted criticism, with accusations of playing into vote bank politics. The growing influence of Sikhs in Canadian politics, especially in key battlegrounds during elections, adds complexity to the situation.
Despite the strained diplomatic relations, the two countries maintain strong people-to-people ties and bilateral trade partnerships. However, experts suggest that significant efforts are needed to repair the current rift and prevent further deterioration in the relationship. Follow BBC News India for more updates on this developing story.
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