Canada affirms support for India's territorial integrity amid diplomatic tensions
New Delhi: In a significant diplomatic statement, Canada has reaffirmed its commitment to respecting India’s territorial integrity, signaling a potential thaw in relations strained by last year's allegations involving the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a prominent figure in the Khalistan separatist movement.
Canada's Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, David Morrison, made the declaration during a foreign interference commission hearing in Ottawa over the weekend. "Canada's policy is very clear that India's territorial integrity must be respected. There's one India, and that's been made very clear," Morrison stated. This is the first formal statement of this kind since diplomatic ties between the two countries soured over allegations made by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in 2023.
The rift between the two nations was triggered when Trudeau accused Indian government agents of being "potentially" involved in the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen and leader of the banned Khalistan Tiger Force. Nijjar, one of India’s most-wanted terrorists, was fatally shot by unknown assailants outside a gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia, in June 2023. India had rejected Trudeau's allegations, calling them "absurd" and "politically motivated."
While reaffirming Canada's support for India's territorial sovereignty, Morrison also addressed the contentious issue of pro-Khalistan elements within Canada. He acknowledged that while the activities of these groups may be "awful" to some, they remain "lawful" under Canada's protection of freedom of speech. "There are things that many of us do not want to see, but they are protected by law," he added.
Morrison's remarks about “One India” were interpreted as a clear signal of Ottawa’s desire to mend ties with New Delhi, especially as the relationship between the two nations has experienced a sharp decline over the past year. The statement was also seen as an effort to distance the Canadian government from the stance of Khalistani separatists, many of whom are Canadian citizens.
Diplomatic relations between India and Canada reached a low point after Trudeau's initial allegations and Canada's perceived tolerance of pro-Khalistan activists. Trade talks were derailed, and a series of mutual diplomatic actions followed. In June 2023, the Canadian Parliament observed a moment of silence in memory of Nijjar, which further aggravated tensions. India responded by organizing a memorial in Vancouver to honor the 329 victims of the 1985 Air India bombing, perpetrated by Khalistani terrorists.
Despite these tensions, Canada has been attempting to reach out to India, especially since the re-election of Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier this year. Trudeau expressed hope for resuming discussions on “serious issues” concerning national security, the rule of law, and safeguarding Canadian citizens.
India has long voiced concerns about Canada becoming a hub for pro-Khalistan separatist activities, accusing the country of providing political space for such movements. In response to the Nijjar killing, Canada arrested four Indian nationals as part of its ongoing investigation, but New Delhi has consistently stated that "political interests" are influencing the situation.
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CSK post 212 for 2 against DC
Chennai (PTI): Sanju Samson smashed a 56-ball 115 not out to propel Chennai Super Kings to a formidable 212 for 2 against Delhi Capitals in their Indian Premier League match here on Saturday.
Sent in to bat, Samson struck four sixes and 15 fours during his blistering knock, stitching key partnerships -- 62 with Ruturaj Gaikwad (15), 113 with Ayush Mhatre (59) and unbroken 37 with Shivam Dube (20).
For DC, skipper Axar Patel (1/39) was the lone wicket-taker.
Brief Scores:
Chennai Super Kings: 212 for 2 in 20 overs (Sanju Samson 115 not out; Axar Patel 1/39).
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