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Adil Javed
Canada's relations with India have recently been tested, owing primarily to the complex issue of the Khalistan movement.
The article examines the changing dynamics
between Canada and India, the history of the Khalistan movement, and its impact
on bilateral ties.
Canada Postpones Trade Mission to India: Unraveling Tensions
The decision by Canada to postpone a trade delegation to India in October has raised eyebrows, underscoring the two countries' poor relations.
Although the precise reasons
for the delay are unknown, it appears to be related to recent political
developments that have clouded their diplomatic ties.
A Bilateral Relationship Under Strain
Canada and India have earlier stated their goal to increase bilateral commerce and investment by the end of the year.
However, these ambitions have run into various roadblocks, most notably during the last G20 conference in New Delhi.
The decision by
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi not to arrange a formal bilateral meeting
with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has been regarded as a significant
setback.
Controversies and Sikh Protests: A Thorn in Relations
A contentious parade float depicting the killing of former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in Brampton, Ontario, heightened tensions.
The Indian government saw the
show as a celebration of separatist violence, further damaging diplomatic ties.
Concerns have also been expressed concerning persistent anti-Indian acts in
Canada.
The Khalistan Movement: Historical Background
The Khalistan movement has a long history of demanding an independent Sikh state created out of Punjab, India.
It rose to prominence as an armed insurrection in the 1980s and was put down by a government response that resulted in numerous casualties.
The movement's origins can be traced back to the 1947 partition of Punjab.
Hardeep Singh Nijjar and Recent Controversy
The current hostilities were precipitated by the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a senior player in the Khalistan movement.
Nijjar, a "terrorist" in India, advocated for an independent Sikh nation in Punjab.
The Canadian
government's attitude on his assassination, as well as claims of foreign
participation, fueled the flames.
The Khalistan Movement Today
While there is no active insurrection in Punjab at the moment, the Khalistan movement retains pockets of support both within the state and among the Sikh diaspora throughout the world.
India has often requested countries such as Canada and the United
Kingdom to take action against Sikh activists and has expressed worry about
their activities.
International Impact of the Khalistan Movement
The movement's influence extends beyond the limits of India. Protests and incidents involving Khalistan have happened in a number of nations, including the United Kingdom and Canada.
Vandalism, protests, and fights with embassy personnel have complicated India's diplomatic relationships.
At the end, the Khalistan movement continues to pose obstacles to Canada-India relations.
The movement's
history and significance, combined with recent controversies, have strained
diplomatic ties. Both countries face the difficult task of tackling these
concerns while pursuing bilateral objectives.
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