Diwali Wishes from Trudeau as India-Canada Relations Strain Over Allegations

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau extended warm Diwali wishes to Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, and Jain communities, celebrating the “triumph of light over darkness” on social media platform X. His message comes at a time of heightened diplomatic tension between Canada and India following his controversial accusations of Indian involvement in the killing of Khalistani separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The charges, which New Delhi has denied, have sent relations between the two countries into a steep decline, creating ripple effects across both nations.

In an additional layer of tension, Canadian opposition leader Pierre Poilievre recently addressed an uproar within the Indian community regarding the status of Ottawa’s annual Diwali celebration. Reports initially suggested that the event had been canceled, sparking disappointment and backlash from community members. However, Poilievre clarified that the event had not been canceled but merely relocated and rescheduled. The Overseas Friends of India Canada (OFIC), which organizes the event, expressed dismay over the initial reports, highlighting the importance of the Diwali gathering as a unifying celebration for Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists in Canada.

On a broader diplomatic front, Canadian Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister David Morrison disclosed to a national security committee that Home Minister Amit Shah was allegedly involved in intelligence and intimidation efforts targeting Sikh separatists in Canada. The U.S. State Department has labeled the allegations “concerning” and emphasized ongoing consultations with Ottawa over the claims.

As Canada’s Indian community navigates the fallout from these escalated tensions, Trudeau’s Diwali message strikes a diplomatic tone, wishing for joy and prosperity during the festive season.