Justin Trudeau’s terror backing, his short sighted politics, diplomatic blunders and their ominous fallout on India-Canada Relations
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s recent actions and statements have cast a dark cloud over the diplomatic relations between India and Canada. His stunning allegations and dubious choice of words regarding the killing of a Khalistani extremist, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, have left many concerned about the future of this bilateral relationship. It’s crucial to dissect the fallout and the impact of Justin Trudeau’s diplomatic blunder on India-Canada ties.
Justin Trudeau’s initial assertion of ‘credible allegations’ of a ‘potential link’ between Indian government agents and Khalistanj Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s murder raised eyebrows worldwide. The phrase ‘credible allegation’ is, indeed, an ambiguous term, far from the concrete evidence one would expect from a head of state. This questionable rhetoric not only undermines the integrity of Canada’s statements but also jeopardizes a longstanding relationship built on diplomacy, people to people relations and mutual respect.
The backlash from Trudeau’s statements in Ottawa has been swift and intense. Canadian media outlets, as well as MPs within Canada’s own parliament, have questioned his judgment. More significantly, traditional allies like the UK, US, and Australia, who also share strategic partnerships with India, have adopted a measured stance in response to this episode.
India on its part has gone on the offensive, firmly rejecting the allegations and also pointing out the growing anti-India activities and hate crimes in Canada. The Ministry of External Affairs yesterday issued an advisory urging Indian nationals in Canada to exercise caution due to increasing threats, particularly targeting Indian diplomats and those opposing the anti-India agenda.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said, ‘In view of growing anti-India activities and ‘politically-condoned hate crimes and criminal violence’ in Canada, all Indian nationals there and those contemplating travel are urged to exercise utmost caution. Recently, threats have particularly targeted Indian diplomats and sections of the Indian community who oppose the anti-India agenda… Indian nationals are therefore advised to avoid travelling to regions and potential venues in Canada that have seen such incidents’
The very fabric of harmony within Canada is fraying as well, with Khalistanis and extremist elements like Gurpatwant Pannu, Chief of the banned outfit Sikhs for Justice, openly threatening Indians, especially Hindus under Trudeau government’s watch.
Crucially, Canada is yet to provide any substantial evidence or details to support Justice Trudeau’s claims made against India in the House of Commons. The seriousness of the response from Western allies will hinge on the quality of evidence shared by Canada. Trudeau’s recent attempt to soften his stance and his emphasis that Canada is not provoking India but wants Delhi to address the issue properly – underscores the fragility of his initial allegations.
The diplomatic fallout could have far-reaching consequences, here’s why
1. India’s diaspora in Canada is substantial, making up over 3 percent of the total Canadian population. Such a large community now faces the repercussions of Trudeau’s diplomatic blunder.
2. Canada has become a preferred destination for Indian students, with over 2,30,000 Indian students studying there
3. Canadian pension funds have invested US $55 billion in India
4. Cumulative FDI from Canada to India since 2000 stands at approximately US $4.07 billion.
5. Bilateral trade between India and Canada has grown over the years, with India importing a substantial portion of pulses from Canada.
The fallout from Trudeau’s actions extends beyond rhetoric; it threatens to disrupt the rich tapestry of India-Canada relations, built on years of cultural exchange, economic partnership, and shared values. The potential damage to these ties should be a grave concern to all those interested in fostering global harmony and cooperation.
Words and intent matter in diplomacy, and the consequences of their misuse can be profound. One can hope that prudence and sensibility will ultimately prevail in mending the rift caused by Justin Trudeau’s attempt to pander to extremist elements in Canada because of his domestic politics compulsions
SHARE
