India-Canada relations: Foreign Secretary to brief parliament on future challenges

Amid escalating tensions between India and Canada, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri will brief the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs on November 6 about the state of relations between New Delhi and Ottawa. Misri will also address India’s ties with China during the same session.

The briefing on India-Canada relations is significant, given the growing diplomatic crisis between the two nations. Recently, India rejected Canadian accusations linking Union Home Minister Amit Shah to activities targeting pro-Khalistan elements in Canada. These allegations have strained the relationship further. New Delhi has already withdrawn its envoy and five diplomats from Canada, while Ottawa expelled six Indian diplomats, including the deputy high commissioner.

This crisis began after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused the Indian government of being involved in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Sikh separatist, in June 2023. India had labeled Nijjar a terrorist in 2020. Trudeau and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police suggested Indian diplomats were targeting Sikh separatists in Canada and sharing information with criminal groups. The issue has sparked serious diplomatic friction.

The parliamentary panel, led by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, includes vocal opposition members like Deepender Hooda, John Brittas, and Asaduddin Owaisi. These lawmakers are keen to explore the details of the crisis and its potential impact on India’s relations with Canada and the US. Some opposition leaders have indicated they will support the government but will seek clarifications on future diplomatic steps.

Meanwhile, former diplomats have criticized the Canadian government’s actions, with Yash Sinha accusing them of violating diplomatic norms. Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu also pointed out that Canada has become a new refuge for elements India considers a threat, replacing Pakistan.

In addition, Misri is expected to discuss the recent progress in India-China relations. Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar confirmed some progress on disengagement along the Line of Actual Control, despite ongoing tensions.