India-Canada Diplomatic Relations Deteriorate as Ottawa Considers Sanctions Over Nijjar Case

The diplomatic tensions between India and Canada have intensified following the killing of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Ottawa has hinted at potential sanctions against India, citing certain findings in the case. New Delhi has strongly denied these allegations, including those made by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The situation has further strained relations between the two nations.

Canadian authorities have accused Indian agents of being involved in homicides, extortion, and violent acts against pro-Khalistan supporters. They also attempted to link the Bishnoi gang to unspecified criminal activities in Canada. In response, India has firmly rejected these claims, stating that no evidence was shared with them regarding the Nijjar case.

Diplomatic Expulsions and Sanctions

India expelled six Canadian diplomats and withdrew its high commissioner from Canada after dismissing Ottawa's allegations. Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly did not rule out imposing sanctions on India, stating that "everything is on the table." She emphasised that expelling diplomats is one of the toughest measures a country can take under the Vienna Convention.

Prime Minister Trudeau, during a press conference, accused India of threatening and killing Canadian citizens on Canadian soil. He stated that Canada would not tolerate foreign government involvement in such activities. Trudeau claimed that the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) had clear evidence of Indian agents posing a threat to public safety.

International Reactions and Investigations

Trudeau discussed the situation with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, focusing on what Ottawa described as a targeted campaign against Canadian citizens by Indian-linked agents. A British readout highlighted their agreement on the importance of the rule of law and their commitment to staying in close contact during the investigation.

The RCMP alleged that Indian agents are using criminals to target South Asian communities, particularly pro-Khalistan elements in Canada. They mentioned connections to the Bishnoi gang but provided no specific details. Indian sources dismissed these claims as vague accusations without evidence.

Economic Ties Amidst Tensions

Despite the diplomatic row, Canada's Minister for International Trade and Economic Development, Mary Ng, reassured the business community of Ottawa's commitment to maintaining commercial ties with India. She acknowledged concerns about uncertainty but emphasised Canada's dedication to supporting established economic relationships.

An Indian government source criticised Trudeau's press conference as repetitive and lacking new information. They argued that Canada's approach involved making vague accusations while placing the burden of denial on India. The source also condemned Canada's targeting of India's high commissioner after extensive engagement over the past year.

The ongoing tensions have put significant strain on India-Canada relations since Trudeau's allegations last September regarding potential Indian involvement in Nijjar's killing. New Delhi has consistently rejected these charges as baseless.