On Saturday, India took significant diplomatic action by summoning a representative from the Canadian High Commission, formally lodging a strong protest against allegations directed at Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a detailed statement confirming that a diplomatic note was handed over following remarks made during a Canadian parliamentary committee meeting on October 29, 2024.
Context of the Allegations
The controversy arose when Canadian Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister David Morrison, addressing a parliamentary panel, alleged that Amit Shah was involved in orchestrating “plots to target Sikh separatists on Canadian soil.” This assertion was reported by the Washington Post, adding to the gravity of the situation. The Indian government responded swiftly, categorically rejecting these claims as “absurd and baseless.”
Official Response from India
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal articulated India’s position, stating that the government protests in the “strongest terms” the remarks made by Morrison. He emphasized that such “irresponsible actions” could have serious repercussions for the bilateral relations between India and Canada. Jaiswal’s remarks underscore the sensitivity surrounding these allegations, particularly in the context of ongoing tensions between the two nations.
Broader Diplomatic Implications
The allegations come amid a backdrop of deteriorating diplomatic relations following Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s earlier claims that Indian government agents may have been involved in the assassination of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June 2023. This accusation led to a significant diplomatic fallout, with India recalling its High Commissioner Sanjay Verma after he was named a ‘person of interest’ in Canada’s investigation into Nijjar’s killing.
In a retaliatory move, India expelled six Canadian diplomats, which has further exacerbated the strain in relations. These actions reflect a growing divide, as both nations grapple with accusations and counterclaims.
U.S. Involvement
The situation has also attracted attention from the United States. U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller commented on the allegations, calling them “concerning.” He indicated that the U.S. would continue consultations with the Canadian government regarding these serious allegations, highlighting the international dimension of the diplomatic crisis.
As tensions rise between India and Canada, the allegations against Amit Shah and the subsequent diplomatic actions reflect deeper geopolitical complexities. The unfolding events signal a critical moment in bilateral relations, with potential implications for regional stability and international diplomacy. Both countries are now navigating a precarious path, as they seek to address these allegations while managing the fallout from previous accusations.
