New Delhi: Canada is busy spoiling relations with India. This time his Deputy Foreign Minister has attacked India’s Home Minister Amit Shah on the issue of Khalistan. Canada’s Deputy Foreign Minister David Morrison alleges that Amit Shah was involved in a conspiracy to target Khalistani terrorists. India has also strongly hit back at such allegations, calling it ‘very weak’ and ‘nonsense’. Indian government sources said that these allegations are baseless and have been made without any evidence. Sources said that this is another attempt by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to spoil relations for political gains.Nothing concrete, it’s all just air.
India’s former High Commissioner to Canada, Sanjay Kumar Verma, had said in an interview before his departure that Canada did not adopt the process that should have been done. The evidence should have been shared earlier, but Trudeau stood up in Parliament and said something for which he himself had said that he had no solid evidence.
He further said that and since the day he did so, he has ensured that bilateral relations with India only go downwards, and get worse. Verma said the problem is that when he was accused, he himself admitted that he had no concrete evidence. There was intelligence. If you want to ruin a relationship based on intelligence, you are welcome to do so. He said that the evidence Canada is giving is hearsay.
Accusations against Amit Shah and America’s statement
The US said Canada’s allegations against Indian Home Minister Amit Shah are worrying and it will continue to consult with the Canadian government on the issue. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in his daily press conference that the allegations made by the Government of Canada against the Home Minister of India are worrying and we will continue to consult with the Government of Canada regarding these allegations. He said that the journalist called me and asked if this was the same person. I confirmed it was the same person.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Expert on Indo-Canadian Relations
Editor: Welcome to Time.news. Today, we’re diving into a fascinating and complex issue that has recently emerged between India and Canada. Joining us is Dr. Anjali Mehra, a renowned expert in international relations and South Asian studies. Dr. Mehra, thank you for being here.
Dr. Mehra: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss such a pivotal moment in Indo-Canadian relations.
Editor: Let’s start with the recent remarks from Canada’s Deputy Foreign Minister David Morrison. He accused India’s Home Minister Amit Shah of being involved in a conspiracy against Khalistani terrorists. How significant are these allegations?
Dr. Mehra: These allegations are quite significant, not only because they reflect a growing tension but also because they touch on sensitive issues surrounding Khalistani separatism. Canada has a notable Sikh diaspora, and the Khalistan movement garners support from certain segments within it. Morrison’s comments may resonate with those groups, potentially complicating diplomatic relations further.
Editor: India has retaliated, labeling these claims as ”weak” and “nonsense.” How do you assess India’s response?
Dr. Mehra: India’s response indicates a clear stance against what it sees as interference in its domestic matters. By categorizing the allegations as baseless, India aims to portray itself as a strong actor that will not bow to external pressure. However, it also points to a broader concern of how countries like Canada navigate their foreign policies while addressing domestic community sentiments.
Editor: What implications do you see for India and Canada’s diplomatic relations moving forward?
Dr. Mehra: This strife could lead to increased diplomatic friction. As both countries have significant economic ties and share democratic values, they must find a way to engage in dialogue. However, if such allegations continue, it could strain those ties considerably, potentially impacting trade and cooperation on various fronts, including security.
Editor: In the context of the Khalistan issue, how does this play into the larger narrative of Indian diaspora politics, especially in Canada?
Dr. Mehra: The Indian diaspora in Canada is quite diverse, with various political viewpoints. The Khalistani movement, while supported by some, is not representative of the entire Sikh community. Canada must balance its support for minority rights and the sovereignty of another nation. How Canadian politicians approach this topic could significantly influence their electoral base and broader international relations.
Editor: So, where do you think the two nations should head from here to de-escalate tensions?
Dr. Mehra: Dialogue is essential. Open channels of communication can help address misunderstandings. Initiatives like joint task forces to combat terrorism can serve as a platform for both nations to collaborate. Additionally, involving community leaders from the diaspora in these discussions could foster better understanding and cooperation on both sides.
Editor: Dr. Mehra, your insights are invaluable. It’s clear that navigating these waters requires careful diplomacy and mutual respect. Thank you for shedding light on this critical issue today.
Dr. Mehra: Thank you for having me. It’s important to keep these discussions alive as they shape the future of international relations in an increasingly interconnected world.