This feature will only share limited information. In line with our editorial policy, it will help you understand the issue, but will not go into the details of the accusations and counter accusations that the two countries have been exchanging.
Why is the India – Canada relationship important?
Canada is the second largest country in the world. India is the seventh largest country in the world.
India is the world’s fifth largest economy. Canada is the ninth largest.
The trade relations between the two countries have been growing every year.
More than 600 Canadian companies have a presence in India. In 2022, India was Canada’s 10th largest trade partner.
Canada has also invested actively in the Indian markets.
India sends the most foreign students to Canada. 40% of all international students in Canada are from India.
According to the 2021 Census of Canada, about 3.7% of Canda’s population is of Indian origin. Of these, about 2% are Sikhs and 1.7% belong to other faiths. After India, Canada has the world’s largest population of Sikhs.
Sikhs make up about 1.7% of India’s population as per the 2011 Census, the most recent Census of India.
What is the issue?
On 23rd September 2023, Canada accused India of killing a Canadian citizen on Canadian soil.
India responded that it was not responsible for the death. At the time, Canada said that India was not co-operating with the investigation. India’s stand was that Canada has not provided any evidence to even indicate that India was involved.
India suspended (temporarily stopped) visa processing for Canadian citizens but resumed it in November 2023.
In May 2024, four Indians were arrested by Canadian law enforcement. America also sided with the idea that India was responsible for the killing.
The issue remained simmering but dormant – till October 2024.
In the meantime, Canada announced restrictions on student intake and visa rules for immigrants. Indian immigrants are likely to find it harder to move to Canada because of these rule changes.
On 14th October 2024, Canada suddenly expelled six Indian diplomats. This list included the Indian High Commissioner, Shri Sanjay Kumar Verma.
In response, India asked the Canadian High Commissioner and five other diplomats to leave India by 19th October.
In the meantime, the Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, got a letter from his own MPs (Members of Parliament) indicating that they do not trust his leadership. Trudeau, has, however, indicated that he will lead the Liberal Party in the next Canadian elections – which might happen anytime from now to October 2025.
What happens now?
Both the investigation and the diplomatic negotiation between the two countries is ongoing. At this time, both countries are making statements.
Read More
https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/sikhism
https://www.mea.gov.in/Portal/ForeignRelation/India-Canada_bilateral-December-2023.pdf