In a shocking turn of events, Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau launched a scathing attack against the Indian government. Revealing the tense undercurrents, Trudeau announced that the crackdown on Canadian diplomats is causing upheavals for millions across India and Canada.

Justin Trudeau Speaks Out

Coming hot on the heels of Canada’s move to pull out 41 diplomats, following threats from India to revoke their status, Trudeau was unequivocal. “The Indian government is making it unbelievably difficult for life as usual to continue for millions of people in India and in Canada. And they’re doing it by contravening a very basic principle of diplomacy,” Trudeau said. Expressing deep concern, he added, “It’s something that has me very concerned for the wellbeing and happiness of millions of Canadians who trace their origins to the Indian subcontinent.”

Root of the Dispute

This diplomatic debacle was stoked when Trudeau hinted at the possible involvement of Indian agents in the murder of a Sikh terrorist in Canada last June. Such assertions have evidently not sat well with New Delhi.

Impact on People-to-People Ties

With nearly two million Canadians of Indian descent, this spat is set to impact vast numbers. Trudeau didn’t mince words, indicating that such expulsion tactics will only obstruct travel, trade, and complicate matters for Indian students in Canada. It’s noteworthy that a massive 40% of Canada’s international students hail from India.

India Retorts

But India isn’t backing down. Rejecting claims of flouting the Vienna convention on diplomatic relations, the Indian foreign ministry shot back. “The state of our bilateral relations, the much higher number of Canadian diplomats in India, and their continued interference in our internal affairs warrant a parity in mutual diplomatic presence in New Delhi and Ottawa,” was the stern message from New Delhi.

  Canada, India, Justin Trudeau