CANADA: India has been the focus of inquiries regarding the extrajudicial killing of a Canadian citizen, a Sikh activist accused of terrorism by India. Delhi has denied any involvement. The prime minister defended the order based on rules, stating that they don’t intend to stir up trouble.
Canada’s Prime Minister Trudeau faces competition from India, a rapidly growing economy. The Five Eyes intelligence alliance has made routine public remarks but does not express complete support. UK foreign secretary James Cleverly and Australia express “deep concern” about the allegations.
The US, Canada’s southern neighbor, has remained silent on India’s economic ties, despite being close allies. President Joe Biden mentioned India at the UN, praising its aid in creating a new economic path. Biden’s national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, refuted claims of a “wedge” between the US and Canada.
Experts suggest that Canada’s interests are undervalued compared to India’s strategic importance, as Western allies like the US, UK, and Indo-Pacific allies have developed a strategy primarily focusing on India, which Canada cannot afford to ignore.
US Ambassador David Cohen acknowledged rumors of Five Eyes partners sharing intelligence on the murder but declined to comment on private diplomatic conversations. Canada’s relative silence may indicate its limitations as a reliable Western friend, not a world force.
Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau faced escalating geopolitical tensions with India, leading to diplomatic expulsions, travel warnings, and visa suspensions. The long summer ended with a worsening week due to inflation, high interest rates, and alleged Chinese political meddling. Critics claim Trudeau and his government were aware but not serious.
The revelation of serial killer Paul Bernardo’s move to a medium-security facility led to widespread indignation and a three-year low in Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau’s approval ratings, with 63% disliking him. The Angus Reid Institute’s President Shachi Kurl, questioned Trudeau’s intentions to resign.
Trudeau, a Canadian politician with a majority mandate, has experienced a decline in popularity as his popularity increased after his election victory but may have waned after eight years.
Experts caution that while Trudeau may appear isolated globally, the dispute may provide him with a boost at home. This situation has kept him away from concerns, and his recent meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky may have helped him feel in good company.
Also Read: NIA Releases Names of Terrorists/Gangsters, Some with Canada Links
