India-Canada Relations Sour Over Sikh Killing Dispute
Recent diplomatic tensions have led to India and Canada expelling each other’s top diplomats due to a dispute surrounding the killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia. The situation has escalated to the point of near breakdown, with experts suggesting a long road to reconciliation.
New Delhi considered Nijjar a terrorist, while Canadian authorities accused Indian government agents of carrying out his assassination. This back-and-forth culminated in mutual expulsions and frozen consular services. Despite allegations of Indian involvement in Nijjar’s killing, India denies any connection, labeling them as politically motivated.
The fallout between the two countries has left the Indian diaspora in Canada, with nearly 2 million members, caught in the crossfire. Trade and economic ties have, for now, remained intact, but concerns linger about further escalations resulting in severed diplomatic relations.
At the root of the issue lies the simmering Sikh separatist movement, a historical source of conflict between India and Canada due to the large Sikh community in the latter country. The underlying tensions highlight the challenging interplay between domestic politics and international relations in shaping the future trajectory of India-Canada ties.
As the diplomatic spat persists, the hope remains for meaningful dialogue and a resolution that safeguards the interests of both nations without compromising the welfare of their citizens.
Article Edited by: Srinivas Mazumdaru