Canada Seeks To Maintain Diplomatic Presence In India Amid Tensions

Canada is striving to preserve its full diplomatic presence in India amid escalating tensions between the two countries. The dispute arose after Canada raised concerns about the possible involvement of the Indian government in the assassination of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar near Vancouver in June. Relations between Ottawa and New Delhi deteriorated significantly following these allegations, and reports emerged that India had instructed Canada to recall approximately 40 diplomats by October 10. However, Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly did not confirm this report, emphasizing that diplomatic discussions with India were taking place privately. Joly underscored the importance of maintaining a strong diplomatic presence in India, particularly during moments of tension, and emphasized the ongoing dialogue with the Indian government. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau acknowledged the challenging situation and stated that Canada had no intention of escalating tensions. Instead, Canada aimed to continue constructive relations with India. The Indian Ministry of Foreign Affairs declined to comment on the report, while describing Canada's accusations regarding the assassination as "absurd." India has also issued travel advisories to its nationals regarding certain parts of Canada and temporarily halted the processing of visa applications for travel to Canada. Michel Juneau-Katsuya, a former senior Canadian intelligence official, expressed the belief that Canada was under pressure to provide evidence supporting its claims regarding the assassination. He suggested that Canada's position had been compromised due to perceived inaction on the matter. The Sikh separatist movement, which advocates for the creation of a separate state of Khalistan in India, has had a presence in Canada, home to approximately 770,000 Sikhs. While the movement has diminished within India itself, security forces had used force to suppress an insurgency in the 1980s. The complexities surrounding this issue continue to impact Canada-India relations.