India and Canada Engage in Diplomatic Renewal Following Sikh Activist Controversy

In a bid to mend their strained relationship, India and Canada have announced new diplomatic appointments and resumed discussions on trade, following tensions stemming from the killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

In a significant move toward easing tensions, India and Canada have initiated a thaw in relations nearly two years after the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian Sikh cleric whose death led to a diplomatic standoff between the two nations. The situation escalated to the point where both countries expelled senior diplomats.

On Tuesday, during the Group of 7 summit held in Kananaskis, Alberta, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney agreed to appoint new high commissioners to streamline communication and restore vital services like trade negotiations and visa processing for citizens. Carney's office issued a statement highlighting the intention to resume regular diplomatic functions and build momentum in bilateral interactions.

While the announcement signals a return to dialogue, both nations notably refrained from addressing the root cause of the rift. In September 2023, Justin Trudeau's Canadian government had accused India of being involved in Nijjar's assassination, asserting that the activist advocated for an independent Sikh state known as Khalistan. India, labeling Nijjar a terrorist, denied these claims and accused Trudeau of exploiting the issue for his own political advantage in a nation where Sikh voters are significant.

The breakdown of trade discussions and other essential services marked a decline in relations, leading to Canada expelling India's high commissioner along with several diplomats, which India met with reciprocal expulsions. Nevertheless, the recent political changes, including Trudeau's resignation and Carney's emergence as the new leader, have provided a fresh opportunity for reconciliation.

This diplomatic renewal marks a hopeful chapter for both nations, as they seek to navigate the complexities of their relationship while addressing the underlying issues that contributed to previous tensions. Matina Stevis-Gridneff contributed to this report. Anupreeta Das, reporting from New Delhi, covers developments concerning India and South Asia.