GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 15th Oct. Several former diplomats on Tuesday dismissed Canada’s allegations linking Indian diplomats in Ottawa to the killing of Sikh extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. They praised India’s decision to expel six Canadian diplomats and withdraw its high commissioner as the “right step in retaliation.”
The tension between India and Canada escalated following Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s claims, which diplomats suggested stemmed from his desperation to gain support from radical elements ahead of upcoming elections. Former diplomat Rajiv Dogra highlighted Trudeau’s declining popularity and suggested that his allegations were an attempt to create a narrative in favor of Sikh extremists in Canada. He characterized Trudeau’s actions as “unfortunate” and “unstatesman-like,” asserting they would not impact India’s position at international forums such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).
Dilip Sinha, another former diplomat, described India’s response as a necessary act of reciprocity against Canada’s “wild allegations” and emphasized the importance of maintaining the safety of Indian diplomats abroad. He echoed concerns about Trudeau’s political motivations, suggesting that his administration’s decision to make such claims was a bid to rally support from pro-Khalistan factions in Canada.
Former brigadier Rahul Bhonsle dismissed Canada’s allegations as “preposterous,” underscoring the professionalism of Indian diplomats. He noted that Trudeau’s actions appeared to be politically driven, particularly as his party faces challenges in the lead-up to elections.
The diplomatic rift has its roots in Trudeau’s previous accusations regarding the involvement of Indian agents in Nijjar’s killing, which India has vehemently denied, reiterating that the primary issue remains Canada’s tolerance of pro-Khalistan elements operating from its territory. Nijjar was shot dead outside a gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia, on June 18 last year, and was declared a terrorist by India.
As the diplomatic row continues, observers are watching closely to see how it will affect India-Canada relations moving forward.
