Jaishankar criticized what he described as Canada's “double standards” in addressing security threats, asserting that while Canada remains vocal about safeguarding its sovereignty, it overlooks similar concerns when dealing with other nations, particularly India. The Indian minister expressed that while India has always respected international norms, Canada’s diplomatic community, in contrast, has allegedly been overstepping its boundaries, gathering sensitive information related to India’s internal affairs.
This exchange follows the mutual expulsion of diplomats from both countries, with India expelling Canadian representatives, including the acting high commissioner, in response to Canada's decision to send Indian diplomats home. Canada had earlier accused India of orchestrating a covert campaign involving Indian agents who allegedly carried out violent acts targeting individuals supportive of the Khalistan movement.
In a speech addressing these accusations, Jaishankar emphasized India's commitment to global diplomacy, criticizing Canada for providing sanctuary to elements that challenge India's security interests. He pointed out that Indian law enforcement and intelligence have gathered evidence showing that Canadian diplomatic channels have been exploited to collect military and law enforcement data from within India, actions that go beyond acceptable diplomatic practices. These claims echo broader concerns that Canada has not taken sufficient action against anti-India factions operating within its borders.
Canadian authorities, however, refute the Indian accusations and maintain that their diplomats have been adhering to international norms. The Canadian government continues to insist that Indian operatives have been involved in unlawful activities within Canada, including extortion and assassination attempts. The killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June was cited as a key example of these alleged extraterritorial actions, with Canadian officials asserting they have credible intelligence linking India to the incident. Despite requests for cooperation, Indian officials have denied involvement and dismissed the allegations as politically motivated.
The diplomatic fallout has brought international attention, with both nations urging global allies to weigh in. Trudeau had previously sought support from the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance, sharing evidence that supposedly tied India to the Nijjar killing. Meanwhile, Indian officials have sought to highlight Canada’s alleged leniency toward separatist groups. Western powers, particularly the United States and the United Kingdom, have expressed concerns over the rising tensions between the two allies but have largely refrained from taking sides.
As the situation intensifies, experts warn that the rift could have significant consequences on trade and diplomatic relations between the two countries. Both nations have longstanding economic and cultural ties, with a significant diaspora community linking them. However, the rising tensions threaten to undermine collaboration across various sectors, particularly security and defense.