Canada publicly stated that it no longer believes India is involved in violent activities on Canadian soil. This announcement indicates a potential warming of relations ahead of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s scheduled visit to New Delhi.

The updated assessment was conveyed during a background briefing, as reported by the Toronto Star, and signifies a shift following months of deteriorating diplomatic ties. A senior Canadian official expressed confidence that alleged activities are not continuing, emphasizing the ongoing robust diplomatic engagement between the countries.

Ongoing Security Dialogue and Future Engagement

Another official commented that the choice to proceed with Carney’s visit reflects this newly formed perspective, stating that such a trip would not occur if Canada believed those activities were still ongoing. The Prime Minister’s Office later clarified that while Canada continues to tackle issues related to transnational repression and organized crime, it also aims to enhance cooperation with India through law enforcement channels.

High-level discussions regarding security between both nations have intensified in recent months, maintaining active lines of communication between national security advisers and law enforcement agencies.

Economic Ambitions and Trade Relations

Mark Carney’s upcoming trip to Mumbai and New Delhi marks his inaugural visit to India in his role as Prime Minister. He is set to engage with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, business leaders, and officials to enhance collaboration across various sectors including trade, energy, technology, artificial intelligence, and defense. Canada recognizes India as a vital economic partner, with bilateral trade reaching $30.8 billion in 2024. Both nations are also exploring the possibility of reviving negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which aims to increase trade to $70 billion by 2030.

Community Reactions and Concerns

Despite this diplomatic shift, some community leaders within the Sikh population in Canada voiced concerns regarding the renewed engagement. They called for continued transparency in ongoing investigations related to past allegations, emphasizing that diplomatic ties should not compromise the pursuit of justice. Moninder Singh, a religious leader from British Columbia, recounted receiving multiple police alerts concerning threats against his life since the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Sikh separatist leader. Singh described the renewed relations with India as a betrayal of trust for those affected by violence.

Impact of Past Incidents on Relations

The relationship between Canada and India weakened significantly following the assassination of Nijjar in June 2023. Subsequently, former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau brought attention to “credible allegations” suggesting connections between Indian government agents and the incident. India dismissed these claims as unfounded, leading to reciprocal expulsions of diplomats and a suspension of visa services, which compounded the strain on diplomatic relations. In October 2024, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police claimed to have evidence linking Indian agents to violent criminal activities within Canada. Canadian officials later indicated that India’s Home Affairs Minister Amit Shah was associated with these allegations, which New Delhi categorically denied.

Future of Canada-India Relations

India maintains that Canada has provided a platform for extremist and separatist groups. Following changes in Canada’s leadership, India’s Ministry of External Affairs expressed readiness to mend ties based on mutual trust and sensitivity. A spokesperson from the Ministry indicated that recent tensions arose from the leniency shown towards extremist elements residing in Canada.

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