India-Canada Relations Strained by Recent Temple Attack and Khalistan Issue

Introduction

Diplomatic relations between India and Canada have taken a tumultuous turn following a recent attack on a Hindu temple in Canada. This incident has further spotlighted the longstanding Khalistan issue, a sensitive subject that has periodically caused friction between the two nations. For International Relations enthusiasts, political analysts, and global citizens, understanding the dynamics at play offers valuable insights into a complex, evolving situation.

The Catalyst – Attack on Indian Temple

The recent attack on a prominent Hindu temple in Canada marked a significant escalation in tensions. While the act itself was condemned globally, it highlighted underlying socio-political tensions involving Canadian Sikhs and their support for the Khalistan movement. The temple attack not only insulted religious sentiments but also emphasized the need for better security measures and international cooperation to prevent such incidents.

Background

The Khalistan movement is a Sikh separatist movement that calls for the creation of an independent Sikh homeland called Khalistan in the Punjab region of India. Here are some key points about the background and history of this issue:

Origins and Early History

The roots of the Khalistan movement can be traced back to the 1940s, during the partition of India:

As British rule in India was ending in the 1930s-40s, some Sikhs began calling for a separate Sikh homeland.

When Pakistan was being created as a Muslim state, some Sikh leaders argued for a separate Sikh community distinct from Hindus and Muslims.

The idea of Khalistan as a theocratic Sikh state was first proposed by the Shiromani Akali Dal party.

However, when India gained independence in 1947, Punjab was divided between India and Pakistan without a separate Sikh state.

Rise of the Movement in the 1970s-80s

The Khalistan movement gained significant momentum in the 1970s and 1980s:

In the 1970s, Punjab experienced political and economic tensions, including disputes over sharing river waters and linguistic issues.

The movement became more militant in the 1980s under leaders like Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale.

Violence escalated, with militant groups carrying out attacks and the Indian government responding with force.

A pivotal event was Operation Blue Star in 1984, when the Indian army stormed the Golden Temple in Amritsar to remove armed Sikh militants.

This was followed by the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi by her Sikh bodyguards and subsequent anti-Sikh riots.

International Dimension

The movement also gained support among some members of the Sikh diaspora:

In the 1970s-80s, pro-Khalistan activism emerged among Sikh communities in countries like the UK, Canada and the US.

Some diaspora groups provided financial and political support to the movement.

However, the movement remained largely confined to Punjab and certain diaspora communities.

Indian Government issue & response

The Indian government submitted a dossier detailing a list of Sikh individuals designated as wanted terrorists residing in Canada few years ago.

A subsequent request was made for cooperation with the Indian authorities. However, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau did not take any action, citing concerns that doing so could jeopardize approximately 2% of the Sikh voter base. Furthermore, it was emphasized that these individuals are now Canadian citizens who have not engaged in any disruptive activities within Canada. Their status as law-abiding citizens complicates the diplomatic relationship between the two nations.

India has strongly rejected Canada’s allegations regarding the killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada. Here are the key points of India’s response:

Denial of involvement: India has categorically denied any involvement in the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, calling the allegations “absurd” and “baseless”.

Diplomatic retaliation: In response to Canada expelling Indian diplomats, India has reciprocated by expelling six Canadian diplomats, including the acting high commissioner and the deputy high commissioner.

Accusations against Canada: India has accused Canada of providing a safe haven for Khalistani terrorists and sympathizers. The Indian government claims that Canada’s failure to ban groups like the Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) and Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) compromises India’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and security.

Criticism of Canadian government: India has expressed a lack of faith in the current Canadian government’s commitment to ensuring the security of Indian diplomats in Canada.

Warnings to citizens: The Indian government has issued warnings to its citizens living in Canada, advising them to exercise “extreme caution” due to a perceived “deteriorating security environment” in the country.

Assertion of rights: India has stated that it reserves the right to take further steps in response to what it perceives as the Trudeau government’s support for extremism, violence, and separatism against India.

Demand for investigation: India has called on Canada to investigate the allegations thoroughly and has expressed readiness to cooperate with such an investigation.

Historical context: India has long-standing complaints about Canada’s handling of Khalistani extremism, dating back to the 1985 Air India bombing.

Overall, India’s response has been one of strong denial, diplomatic retaliation, and criticism of Canada’s approach to Khalistani activism within its borders. The situation has led to a significant deterioration in India-Canada relations.

Khalistan Movement and Canadian Sikhs

The Khalistan movement, which advocates for an independent Sikh state, has been a contentious issue within India and among the Sikh diaspora worldwide. While this movement does not represent the views of all Sikhs, it has gained a notable foothold within certain segments of the Canadian Sikh community, which includes a substantial population of Sikhs with deep cultural and familial connections to India.

Canada's multicultural policies have allowed the Sikh community to thrive and maintain their cultural identity. However, political activism related to Khalistan has sometimes led to diplomatic challenges between Canada and India. The recent temple attack has reignited discussions surrounding the influence of Khalistani sympathizers in Canada and their impact on bilateral relations.

Canada has twice accused diplomat India being involved in Murder of two Sikh terrorist, who are Canadian citizens , stating Indian diplomats were involved in execution of plan

India has asked for relevant evidence which has not been provided by Trudeau till date

Diplomatic Reactions

India has expressed significant concerns over the safety of its diaspora and the increasing visibility of Khalistani activities in Canada. The Indian government has called for decisive action against those propagating violence and hatred under the guise of political expression. Conversely, the Canadian government, while condemning the attack, has reaffirmed its commitment to free speech and peaceful political advocacy, albeit with a zero-tolerance stance on violence.

These differing perspectives underscore the delicate balance both nations must maintain. For Canada, it's crucial to uphold its foundational values of multiculturalism and freedom of expression. For India, ensuring the safety and unity of its diaspora, along with curtailing separatist propaganda, remains a top priority.

The Path Forward

Moving forward, both countries will need to engage in open dialogue and collaborative efforts to address the root causes of the tensions. Building mutual trust through diplomatic channels, enhancing security cooperation, and fostering bilateral trade and cultural exchanges could serve as means to mend ties.

Furthermore, engaging the Sikh diaspora as a bridge between the nations rather than a source of division could redefine their role as ambassadors of peace. Encouraging community leaders to promote dialogue and understanding within their constituencies could pave the way for reduced tensions and greater harmony.

Conclusion

The latest rift between India and Canada serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in international relations, where domestic issues can have far-reaching foreign policy implications. While the challenges are significant, the opportunity for positive change exists if both nations choose to prioritize diplomatic engagement and mutual respect. Global citizens and political analysts will keenly observe how this situation unfolds, hoping for a resolution that strengthens the ties between these two diverse democracies.