India has firmly dismissed allegations made by Canada that it violated international norms by asking Canada to recall a significant number of its diplomats stationed in India. The diplomatic tensions between the two nations have intensified following these claims.
The Canadian government recently withdrew 41 of its 62 diplomats from India, citing a warning from New Delhi that their diplomatic immunity would be revoked. Canada labeled this move as a breach of the Geneva Convention and described it as “unreasonable and escalatory”.
In response, India’s Ministry of External Affairs stated that the call for parity in the number of diplomats was not a violation of international norms. India argued that the high number of Canadian diplomats in the country necessitated a reduction to ensure equal representation.
The diplomatic row stems from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s accusations that India was involved in the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Sikh separatist leader, in June 2023 in suburban Vancouver. Trudeau described the allegations as “credible,” leading to a significant deterioration in India-Canada relations. India has denied any involvement, calling the claims “absurd” and accusing Canada of harboring separatists and terrorists.
The ongoing dispute has led to broader repercussions, including the cancellation of visas for Canadians by India. Prime Minister Trudeau expressed concerns about the impact on millions of people in both countries, noting that the situation complicates lives and disrupts regular diplomatic functions. He emphasized the need for international law and diplomatic principles to be upheld.
The escalating tensions between India and Canada highlight the complexities of international diplomacy and the challenges in maintaining bilateral relations amid serious allegations. Both nations remain at an impasse, with diplomatic efforts strained and future relations uncertain.
