Tensions between India and Canada rise as Trudeau accuses India of criminal ties

Ottawa: The diplomatic rift between India and Canada has worsened as Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has stepped up his allegations against India. Trudeau doubled down on claims that India “supported criminal activity against Canadians” and “took coercive measures against South Asian Canadians.” His comments come amid a worsening diplomatic standoff between the two countries, sparked by allegations linking Indian government agents to the June 2023 killing of Canadian national and Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

India has strongly rejected these allegations, calling them “absurd” and “motivated” and criticizing the Trudeau government for failing to provide concrete evidence. Tensions further escalated with the mutual expulsion of diplomats as Canada expelled six Indian officials, including acting Indian High Commissioner to Canada Stewart Wheeler and his deputy. India responded by withdrawing six Canadian diplomats, citing security concerns.

Trudeau’s recent comments represent a significant escalation as he claimed the Indian government was working with organized crime in Canada to collect information on Canadian citizens, which he said led to violent acts such as extortion and murder. He further explained that Canadian officials shared intelligence with allies, including the United States, through the Five Eyes alliance.

The dispute has soured bilateral relations as India denies Trudeau’s allegations and continues to demand evidence. Delhi also criticized Trudeau’s government over its perceived hostility towards India, noting that the allegations appear to be politically motivated, particularly as Trudeau’s domestic popularity has declined ahead of Canada’s 2025 election.

The situation remains tense as both countries maintain their tough stance and diplomatic disputes continue to unfold.