Ties with Canada hinge upon action against anti-India activities: Govt
New Delhi has made it clear that relations with Canada cannot be fully restored unless the Canadian government takes decisive and verifiable action against those involved in anti-India activities. This stance was highlighted following Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s claim that he discussed “real issues” with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during their meeting on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit in Vientiane, Laos.
Indian sources, however, have denied any substantive discussion between the two leaders, noting that while India values its relationship with Canada, progress is dependent on Canada’s willingness to crack down on activities that promote hate, disinformation, communal disharmony and violence in both India and Canada.
India has repeatedly voiced its concern over anti-India Khalistani activities occurring on Canadian soil. New Delhi expects firm action against those advocating violence, extremism and terrorism targeting India and expressed frustration over the lack of such measures. India has also raised concerns about the growing nexus between these forces and organised crime, drug syndicates and human trafficking networks — issues that should equally concern Canada.
Last week, Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar spoke about individuals wanted by Indian authorities who have entered Canada using fake documents and are now residing there.
Relations between the two countries have deteriorated since September 2023, when Trudeau publicly linked the Indian government to the killing of Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil — an accusation New Delhi swiftly rejected as “absurd” and “motivated”. In response to the growing tensions, both countries have recalled top diplomats and Canada pulled back 40 diplomats from India after New Delhi called for “parity” in diplomatic representation. India also temporarily suspended visa issuance to Canadians.
Trudeau, speaking to reporters in Laos, mentioned a “brief exchange” with Modi but emphasised his government’s priority on the safety of Canadians and upholding the rule of law. However, until Canada demonstrates tangible action against those fuelling anti-India sentiments, New Delhi’s position on restoring full diplomatic ties remains firm.
