EXPLAINER
Canada accuses Indian government agents of being involved in ‘serious criminal activity’, a claim India rejects.
A diplomatic dispute between India and Canada has escalated, leading to the expulsion of diplomats from both countries over allegations of Indian government agents engaging in activities threatening the safety of Canadians.
The conflict reignited after Canada implicated Indian officials in criminal activities, including the murder of a Sikh separatist leader in Canada last year. While Canada expelled six Indian diplomats, India denied involvement in the homicide and instead accused Canada of smearing its reputation for political reasons.
Both countries have exchanged accusations and expelled diplomats, further straining their already tense relationship. Canada claims to have evidence linking Indian agents to violent acts and interference in democratic processes, while India accuses Canada of baseless targeting.
The dispute highlights deep-rooted tensions between the two nations, fueled by the investigation into the Sikh leader’s killing and longstanding concerns over Sikh separatism. The conflicting narratives threaten to impact diplomatic ties and the large South Asian population in Canada.