India’s new high commissioner in Ottawa has emphasized that there will be no apology from India for the Nijjar assassination or other acts of violence Canada attributed to New Delhi, despite improving relations between the two countries. Dinesh Patnaik stated that such allegations by the RCMP and Canadian government are baseless and unfounded.
Despite upcoming evidence contradicting the innocence claims, set to be presented in a New York courtroom next March, both countries are moving towards enhancing their relationship. This positive trajectory was further emphasized following a meeting between Mark Carney and Narendra Modi at the G20 summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, where initiatives were discussed to advance various sectors of cooperation between India and Canada.
However, concerns have been raised within Canada’s Sikh community regarding the quick normalization of ties with India. Balpreet Singh from the World Sikh Organization expressed apprehension, stating that India may exploit Canada’s perceived concessions on security matters.
Sikh activists, particularly those involved in the Khalistan referendum efforts, continue to receive warnings of imminent threats to their safety from the RCMP. Additionally, reports indicate ongoing violent extortions targeting the Sikh community, allegedly encouraged by Indian officials.
India’s appointment of Parag Jain, who has been associated with monitoring Khalistani terror groups, as the head of its overseas intelligence service has raised skepticism regarding India’s activities in Canada. Despite India’s denial of running intelligence operations in Canada, recent developments suggest otherwise.
While both countries are keen on reviving their relationship, some skepticism remains about India’s intentions. The recent listing of the Bishnoi gang as a terrorist entity by Canada was welcomed by India as a step towards addressing criminal activities. The engagement between the two nations is seen as a pragmatic approach by both leaders, Carney and Modi, who are under pressure to deliver positive outcomes amidst challenges from other global powers.
The growing cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the series of meetings between foreign ministers and national security advisers indicate a concerted effort to address mutual concerns. Recent events, such as arrests and charges related to security threats, underscore the seriousness with which both countries are approaching the relationship.
Former CSIS director Ward Elcock highlighted the changing dynamics, emphasizing that Canada’s options are limited due to economic reasons, leading to engagements with countries like India. While there are concerns about foreign interference and security risks, continued vigilance by CSIS is deemed necessary to ensure diplomatic relations do not compromise national security interests.