The diplomatic rift between India and Canada has deepened over allegations linking India to Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s murder, resulting in both countries expelling each other’s diplomats.
Indo-Canadian Relations
- Historical Background
- Long-Standing Relationship: India and Canada share a rich history rooted in trade, cultural exchange, and diplomatic ties.
- Mutual Commitment: Both nations are dedicated to the principles of democracy, diversity, and economic cooperation.
- Escalation of Tensions
- Decline in Relations: The relationship reached a low point due to a political spat surrounding the Khalistani issue.
- Trudeau’s Allegations: On September 18, 2023, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made claims of “credible allegations” linking the Indian government to the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen and supporter of Khalistan.
- Political Irony: Canada appears to prioritise electoral gains from Khalistani supporters over improving bilateral relations with India, while neglecting the challenges posed by China.
- India’s Response: India vehemently refuted these allegations, accusing Canada of hypocrisy for allowing its citizens to promote violent separatism.
- Expulsions and Recalled Diplomats:
- In response to the allegations, both India and Canada expelled each other’s diplomats, indicating significant diplomatic fallout.
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Background of the Khalistan Issue
- Khalistan Movement: This separatist movement seeks to establish an independent Sikh state in Punjab, India.
- Historical Context: Although the Khalistan movement peaked in the 1980s and is currently inactive in Punjab, some foreign vested interests continue to promote instability in India.
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Double Standards in Western Democracy
- Freedom of Expression vs. Security Interests: The Canadian deputy foreign minister has pointed out that many activities of pro-Khalistani elements, while “awful,” are lawful under Canadian law, emphasising the value placed on freedom of expression.
- History shows that Western countries often overlook fundamental freedoms in favour of national security, leading to selective enforcement of laws based on political convenience.
- Critique of International Law Violations: Canadian PM has previously commented on Indian domestic affairs, which some view as a violation of international law.
- However, there is a lack of similar criticism directed at the U.S. for its extraterritorial application of domestic laws, demonstrating the hypocrisy in the approach taken by Western leaders.
Strategic Recommendations for India
- Strengthening Diplomatic Engagement: India should prioritise engaging with Western countries. By fostering these relationships, India can present its case regarding the unjust accusations and manipulative narratives put forth by the Canadian government
- Leveraging International Law: India should advocate for a more consistent application of international law among Western democracies, challenging their selective enforcement of laws.
- Preparing for Legal and Diplomatic Challenges: As Canada continues to detain Indian nationals in connection with the Nijjar murder case, India must prepare for potential legal and diplomatic challenges.
- Enhancing Domestic and International Messaging: India should strengthen its domestic and international messaging to counteract negative narratives.
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Conclusion
The diplomatic rift between India and Canada highlights the fragility of international relations, revealing the need for careful dialogue and respect for sovereignty to restore trust and cooperation moving forward.
October 16, 2024
