Indian Diaspora in Canada Calls for Peace Amid India-Canada Diplomatic Tensions
In Ontario, Canada, members of the Indian Diaspora have expressed concerns over the strained relations between India and Canada. They are urging for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing diplomatic standoff. Recently, India expelled six Canadian diplomats and recalled its envoy to Canada.
Voices from the Indian Diaspora
Baljit Singh Bawa, a prominent Canadian businessman and social activist, described the situation as “disheartening” and attributed it to “politically driven statements” influenced by personal egos or community favoritism. He emphasized the importance of strong relations between the two countries, given India’s status as the world’s third-largest GDP.
Darshan Maharaja, an Indo-Canadian host, also expressed sorrow over the deteriorating relationship. He highlighted the potential impact on citizens and trade relations, suggesting that a “third friendly country” could mediate to resolve the issues.
Impact on the Indian Community in Canada
Canada is home to nearly 1.8 million people of Indian descent, making up over 3% of its population. The bilateral trade between India and Canada was recorded at 7.65 billion US Dollars in 2023.
Background of the Diplomatic Crisis
The diplomatic crisis began after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused Indian government agents of involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani terrorist, in British Columbia. India has dismissed these allegations as “absurd” and “politically motivated.” In response, both countries have expelled diplomats from each other’s territories.
Doubts Revealed
Indian Diaspora -: The Indian Diaspora refers to people of Indian origin who live outside India. In this context, it means Indians living in Canada.
Diplomatic Tensions -: Diplomatic tensions occur when two countries have disagreements or conflicts in their political relations. It can lead to actions like expelling diplomats.
Expelling Diplomats -: Expelling diplomats means sending them back to their home country. It is a serious action taken when countries are upset with each other.
Envoy -: An envoy is a representative or ambassador sent by a country to another country to manage diplomatic relations.
Justin Trudeau -: Justin Trudeau is the Prime Minister of Canada. He is the leader of the Canadian government.
Hardeep Singh Nijjar -: Hardeep Singh Nijjar was a person whose killing has caused controversy between India and Canada. Canada made allegations about his death that India denies.
