India has expelled six Canadian diplomats, including Acting High Commissioner Stewart Ross Wheeler, in response to Canada’s allegations linking Indian diplomats to the June 2023 assassination of Khalistan supporter Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has set a deadline for their departure by 11:59 p.m. on October 19.
India’s decision comes after a series of unfounded accusations from the Canadian government, which the Indian government has strongly rejected. The MEA stated that the Trudeau administration’s actions compromise the safety of Indian diplomats amid rising extremism and violence. “We no longer trust the current Canadian government’s commitment to ensuring their safety,” the ministry emphasized.
This incident has intensified scrutiny on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government, as analysts suggest that the accusations may serve as a strategy to rally support from the politically influential Sikh community ahead of the federal elections. The recent downturn in Trudeau’s popularity, highlighted by a mere 26% approval rating in an Ipsos poll, reflects a broader discontent with rising crime and healthcare issues in Canada. In Guwahati, market analysts note that the diplomatic row could impact trade relations between India and Canada, particularly affecting sectors reliant on bilateral exchanges. As local businesses prepare for potential shifts in trade policies, stakeholders remain vigilant about the ramifications on economic ties.