Trudeau Accuses India of Coercive Behavior Amid Diplomatic Expulsions
Delhi: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Tuesday accused the Indian government of “coercive behaviour and threatening and violent acts,” as both countries announced mutual expulsions of diplomats following the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. During a press conference, Mr. Trudeau stated that New Delhi’s “fundamental error” was “unacceptable” as tensions escalated over the 2023 murder case of Nijjar, a Canadian citizen.
Calling the expulsion “additional steps to protect Canadians,” Mr. Trudeau reiterated the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)’s assertion that “agents of the Government of India have engaged in, and continue to engage in, activities that pose a significant threat to public safety.”
Trudeau’s allegations emerge as his administration faces dwindling support and low popularity ratings, alongside two electoral losses ahead of next year’s elections.
The Prime Minister urged India to cooperate with the investigation, acknowledging the evidence provided thus far about the murder case, and affirmed that “extrajudicial operations abroad will henceforth be unequivocally aligned with international law.”
India has consistently denied these allegations, asserting that Canada has yet to present any evidence to substantiate them.
In response, New Delhi criticized Canada for pursuing its diplomats as “persons of interest” in the investigation, labeling the accusations as “preposterous” and a “strategy of smearing India for political gains.” India maintains that Canada has allowed pro-Khalistani elements to operate from its territory unchecked.
Both nations expelled the other’s ambassador and five top diplomats after India’s envoy was named among “persons of interest” in Nijjar’s murder. India announced the withdrawal of six diplomats from Canada, while Ottawa issued expulsion notices in retaliation. Although tensions have been brewing since the June 2023 murder—where Trudeau cited “credible allegations” linking Indian intelligence services to the crime—the diplomatic expulsions mark a significant escalation.
India has ordered the expulsion of Ottawa’s acting High Commissioner Stewart Wheeler, his deputy, and four first secretaries, requiring them to depart before midnight on Sunday.
In turn, Ottawa revealed similar measures, with Canadian authorities indicating they had “evidence related to agents of the government of India’s involvement in serious criminal activity” in Canada. Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly remarked that India had refused to collaborate on the investigation or lift diplomatic immunity for its envoys.
India rejected these claims and stated, “Since Prime Minister Trudeau made certain allegations in September 2023, the Canadian Government has not shared any evidence with the Government of India, despite numerous requests from our side.”
Nijjar, who immigrated to Canada in 1997 and became a citizen in 2015, had advocated for a separate Sikh state, known as Khalistan, to be carved out of India. Wanted by Indian authorities for alleged terrorism and conspiracy to commit murder, four Indian nationals have been arrested in connection with Nijjar’s murder, which occurred in the parking lot of a Sikh temple in Vancouver in June 2023.
Expert Discussion
To provide insights into these escalating tensions, we invited a panel of experts:
- Dr. Anjali Kumar: Political Scientist specializing in international relations.
- Mr. Rajesh Bhatti: South Asian Affairs Analyst.
- Dr. Emily Carter: Security Studies Expert.
Dr. Kumar: “The allegations surrounding Nijjar’s murder have heightened diplomatic friction, highlighting the complexities of international law concerning extrajudicial actions.”
Mr. Bhatti: “India’s assertions about Khalistani groups operating from Canada complicate matters. It’s vital to assess how both nations address their internal security concerns while maintaining diplomatic relations.”
Dr. Carter: “These developments could lead to a reevaluation of Canada-India relations in the international arena. The situation demands a careful response from both sides to avoid further deterioration.”
This unfolding situation calls for careful monitoring as both countries navigate their diplomatic relations amid serious accusations. What are your thoughts on the recent developments? Join the conversation in the comments below!