15-Oct-2024, 02:25 PM
India-Canada relations have reached a new low following a series of escalating diplomatic tensions, primarily triggered by the assassination of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Here’s a timeline detailing how these tensions deteriorated:
Timeline of Events
June 18, 2023
: Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen advocating for an independent Sikh state, is shot dead outside a gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia. His murder raises alarms within the Canadian Sikh community and ignites discussions about foreign interference.September 1, 2023: Canada announces a pause in negotiations for a proposed trade treaty with India, citing growing tensions. This decision follows months of discussions aimed at finalizing an initial agreement.September 10, 2023: During the G20 summit in New Delhi, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expresses concerns to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau regarding Sikh separatist activities in Canada.September 18, 2023: Trudeau reveals in Parliament that Canadian authorities are investigating credible allegations linking Indian government agents to Nijjar’s assassination. This claim is met with immediate dismissal from India, which labels it “absurd.”September 19, 2023: In a tit-for-tat response, both countries expel diplomats. Canada expels India’s top intelligence officer while India retaliates by expelling a senior Canadian diplomat.
September 22, 2023: India suspends the issuance of new visas for Canadians and demands that Ottawa reduce its diplomatic presence in India. This move intensifies the diplomatic standoff.October 29, 2023: Tens of thousands of Sikhs gather in Surrey to participate in an unofficial referendum regarding the establishment of Khalistan, further straining relations as India views this as support for separatism.May 3, 2024: Canadian police charge three individuals connected to Nijjar’s murder, suggesting organized efforts may have been behind the killing.
August 27, 2024: Authorities warn Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a prominent Sikh separatist and associate of Nijjar, about threats to his life.October 14, 2024: Canada expels six Indian diplomats, including the High Commissioner, citing their involvement in activities linked to Nijjar’s murder and broader efforts to target Indian dissidents in Canada. In retaliation, India orders the expulsion of six Canadian diplomats and withdraws its envoy from Canada.
Conclusion
The deterioration of India-Canada relations reflects deep-rooted issues surrounding Sikh separatism and foreign interference. As both nations grapple with these complex challenges, the future of their diplomatic ties remains uncertain.
