Issue: Canada’s allegations (Not proven) of involvement of an Indian officer (Intelligence Officer) in killing of a Khalistani separatist (Hardeep Singh Nijjar) in Canada in June 2023. Canada has expelled the Indian Officer. India in return has also expelled a Canadian diplomat posted in India. India issued travel advisory to Indians travelling to Canada as well as to the Indians in Canada. India has suspended visa services also to Canadians who wished to travel to India. (Including e visa facility)

POLITICAL SITUATION IN CANADA

Justin Trudeau, the current PM of Canada has formed a coalition government in Canada. One of the supporting Parties is the New Democratic Party of Mr. Jagmeet Dhaliwal. (said to be a Khalistani sympathiser by the GoI) This can be a probable link why the Canadian PM, without completion of the investigation, is taking affirmative actions like these.

INDIA CANADA FACTSHEET

INDIA CANADA DIPLOMATIC STANDOFF explained for UPSC FACTORS INFLUENCING CANADA’S FOREIGN POLICY According to many diplomatic experts, Canada’s Foreign Policy is hostage to the immigrants in Canada. (Canada is home to many immigrants from all across the world)
  • The Russian & Ukrainian immigrants shape Canada’s Russia Policy.
  • Hong KONG & TAIWAN immigrants shape Canada’s China Policy.
  • The Jewish immigrants shape Canada’s Israel Policy.
  • Srilankan immigrants shape Canada’s SL Policy. (During civil war)
  • Afghan immigrants shape Canada’s Afghanistan Policy.
  • Khalistan immigrants have hijacked Canada’s India Policy now. (out of 20 lakh Indian diaspora in Canada, 8 lakh are Sikhs; out of which only 1% are Pro-Khalistan. (controlling 12-15 Gurudwaras)
THE GEOPOLITICS INVOLVED Canada is a member of G7. (USA, UK, France, Germany, Italy & Japan) It also shares intelligence with Five eyes grouping–USA, UK, Australia & New Zealand. All these countries are also close partners with India. (QUAD) This complicates the situation for these countries. USA, UK & Australia have responded in a balanced & nuanced way.