Diaspora (Commonwealth Union) _ India reiterated its stance, emphasizing its “core issue” with Canada concerning the space provided to separatists, terrorists, and anti-India elements in the country. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Arindam Bagchi’s comments followed Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s statement that India’s ties with Canada might have experienced a “tonal shift” after the indictment of an Indian national in the US for plotting an assassination attempt on a Sikh separatist.
Bagchi maintained the consistency of India’s position, highlighting the concern about the space given to extremists and terrorists in Canada. He refrained from directly addressing Trudeau’s remarks but expressed the hope that Canada would take action against such elements misusing freedom of speech and expression.
The bilateral relationship between India and Canada faced strain in September when Trudeau alleged a potential involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia. India had designated Nijjar as a terrorist in 2020, and New Delhi rejected Trudeau’s charges as “absurd.”
Trudeau suggested a shift in understanding, indicating that Canada cannot bluster its way through the issue and openness to collaboration. He noted that the US indictment may have influenced India to adopt a more measured tone. Trudeau emphasized Canada’s commitment to standing up for people’s rights, safety, and the rule of law.
Last month, US federal prosecutors charged Indian national Nikhil Gupta with collaborating in a foiled plot to kill Sikh extremist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on American soil. Pannun, wanted in India on terror charges, holds dual citizenship of the United States and Canada.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, on December 7, stated in Parliament that India had instituted an inquiry committee to examine the US inputs in the case, considering its impact on national security. He clarified that there would be no equitable treatment for Canada’s allegations as no specific evidence or inputs were provided to India by Ottawa.
