PM Modi's Visit to Canada Sparks Shift in Relations Over Khalistani Concerns

Prime Minister Modi's Brief Visit to Canada
On June 17, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Canada to participate in the G7 summit. This visit, lasting just 23 hours, marked his first trip to Canada since 2015. Following this visit, the relationship between Canada and India appears to be on the mend. Former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had previously strained ties with India due to his support for Khalistani elements, but the current government under Mark Carney is now acknowledging the threats posed by these groups.
Canadian Intelligence Acknowledges Khalistani Threat
The Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) has revealed that Khalistani groups are using Canadian soil to promote violence, raise funds, and plan attacks primarily targeting India. This is the first time CSIS has publicly confirmed such information.
India's Long-Standing Concerns
India has expressed concerns for years regarding the activities of Khalistani groups in Canada, claiming that the country has become a safe haven for anti-India elements. The Trudeau administration had previously ignored these issues, but the recent acknowledgment by Canadian authorities aligns with India's long-held views.
Khalistani Activities and Their Impact
India has consistently argued that Canada serves as a hub for anti-India activities, particularly the separatist Khalistan movement, which traces its roots back to the 1985 Air India bombing and subsequent terrorist acts in India. Amid these concerns, Trudeau had criticized India following the 2023 murder of Canadian citizen Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a known Khalistani supporter, but India has dismissed these allegations.
Operation Against Khalistani Networks
In response to the activities of Khalistani groups, the Indian government initiated an operation named Project Pelican. This operation led to the dismantling of a significant drug and terrorist network linked to Khalistani supporters, which utilized commercial trucking routes between the U.S. and Canada. Reports indicate that funds from drug trafficking were being funneled into anti-India activities, including protests and arms purchases.
Improving Relations Under Carney's Leadership
Since Mark Carney took office, relations between India and Canada have been improving. PM Modi's visit marked a significant moment after a decade, during which he met with Carney. Both leaders agreed to appoint high commissioners and resume long-stalled trade talks, discussing opportunities for collaboration in technology, digital transformation, food security, and critical minerals.
Discussion on Nijjar's Case
When asked if he discussed the murder of Nijjar during the G7 summit, Carney confirmed that he and PM Modi talked about the importance of direct cooperation between law enforcement agencies and addressing international repression. He emphasized the need for caution regarding the ongoing judicial proceedings related to Nijjar's case.