An old video of S Jaishankar, India’s External Affairs Minister, has gone viral recently where he states responded to India Canada relations by stating that the “Newton’s law of politics” would apply, indicating that any actions would be met with equal reactions. “If there are things that happen out there, there will be pushback. Others will take steps or counter it,” Jaishankar remarked, signaling India’s intent to respond to the accusations.
Tensions between Canada and India have escalated as Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India of legitimizing “extremism, separatism, and advocates of violence” under the guise of free speech. Trudeau’s remarks came as Canada leveled new accusations against the Indian government, claiming its direct involvement in criminal activities on Canadian soil, although no public evidence was provided to support these allegations.
The diplomatic rift deepened after the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) linked Indian government agents to organized crime in Canada, specifically the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. The RCMP tied these allegations to their ongoing investigation into the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a prominent pro-Khalistan figure killed in Canada last year. Nijjar’s death had previously triggered diplomatic tension, with India strongly denying involvement and accusing Canada of protecting separatist extremists.
According to the RCMP, Indian agents have been collaborating with the Bishnoi gang to target pro-Khalistan activists in Canada. In response, India recalled its top diplomat from Canada and expelled six Canadian diplomats. Ottawa had earlier designated several Indian officials, including the High Commissioner, as “persons of interest” in Nijjar’s murder case.
Diplomatic relations between the two nations continue to deteriorate as both sides stand firm on their respective positions.
