Indian High Commissioner Sanjay Verma Recalled Amid Tensions with Canada
In a recent development, Sanjay Verma, the Indian High Commissioner to Canada, was recalled by India after being declared a person of interest by Canadian authorities in connection with the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a designated terrorist by India. Nijjar was shot dead in June 2023 outside a gurdwara in Surrey, Canada.
Chronology of Events
On October 12, Verma was summoned to Global Affairs Canada and handed a sealed envelope declaring him and five colleagues as persons of interest. Despite the serious nature of the situation, Verma maintained composure and informed the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in Delhi.
Diplomatic Tensions
Following the recall of Verma and his deputies, Canada declared them persona non grata, giving them until October 19 to leave the country. This move strained diplomatic relations, with Verma noting that such an action was unprecedented in Indian diplomacy.
Verma’s Perspective
Verma expressed disappointment over the lack of evidence provided by Canada and criticized the Canadian government for allegedly encouraging Khalistani extremists. He emphasized India’s status as a major global player and urged for more sensitivity from Canadian leaders and media.
Background
The diplomatic rift follows Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s allegations of India’s involvement in Nijjar’s killing, which India has strongly denied. The situation highlights ongoing tensions between the two countries over issues related to extremism and diplomatic conduct.
Doubts Revealed
High Commissioner -: A High Commissioner is like an ambassador, but for countries that are part of the Commonwealth, like India and Canada. They represent their country’s government in another country.
Recalled -: When a diplomat like a High Commissioner is ‘recalled’, it means their home country has asked them to come back. This usually happens when there are problems or tensions between the two countries.
Tensions -: Tensions mean that there are problems or disagreements between two countries. It can lead to arguments or even affect their relationship.
Nijjar Case -: The Nijjar Case refers to the situation involving Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was considered a terrorist by India. His death has caused disagreements between India and Canada.
Persona non grata -: Persona non grata is a Latin term meaning ‘unwelcome person’. When a diplomat is declared persona non grata, they are asked to leave the country they are in.
Khalistani extremists -: Khalistani extremists are people who support the idea of creating a separate country for Sikhs called Khalistan. Some of them use violence to try to achieve this goal.
Canadian PM Trudeau -: Canadian PM Trudeau refers to Justin Trudeau, who is the Prime Minister of Canada. He is the leader of the Canadian government.
