Tensions between Canada and India are deepening, as Sikh groups in Canada demand the closure of Indian consulates in Toronto and Vancouver. The calls come in response to explosive allegations that the Indian government may have been involved in covert operations on Canadian soil, including intimidation, coercion, and even assassinations targeting members of the Sikh community.
The diplomatic rift was ignited after Canada’s Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) disclosed evidence linking Indian diplomats to organized crime activities aimed at silencing political dissent within Canada’s Sikh population. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government has already taken action by expelling six senior Indian diplomats, accusing them of orchestrating a campaign of intimidation against Canadian citizens.
Sikh organizations, representing a significant portion of Canada’s population, have expressed outrage over these revelations and are intensifying their demands for the Canadian government to sever diplomatic ties with India, starting by shutting down consulates in key cities. These groups argue that India’s alleged interference has escalated to a point where Canadian sovereignty and the safety of its Sikh community are under direct threat.
“We cannot allow a foreign government to operate freely in our country while it actively targets Canadian citizens,” a representative from a prominent Sikh advocacy group said during a recent protest in Toronto. Demonstrators also gathered in Vancouver, calling for justice and action against what they view as India’s overreach.
The Indian government has denied the allegations, dismissing them as baseless and politically motivated. However, the situation has worsened relations between the two nations, already strained by disagreements over trade and geopolitical issues.
Experts warn that this diplomatic escalation could lead to severe consequences for the already fragile economic ties between India and Canada. Although Canadian Trade Minister Mary Ng has downplayed the risk of an economic fallout, insisting that trade relations will remain unaffected, the mounting political tension suggests otherwise. Bilateral trade between the two nations, valued at $8 billion annually, could become collateral damage if relations continue to deteriorate. Sectors like agriculture, energy, and technology are expected to feel the impact most acutely.
While Canada has taken diplomatic measures, it remains to be seen whether more actions will follow, such as recalling ambassadors or imposing sanctions. Both countries are under mounting international scrutiny as the situation unfolds.
