‘There’s one India’: Reaffirms support for India’s territorial integrity amid diplomatic strain
PTC News Desk: Canada has reaffirmed its unwavering stance on India’s territorial integrity amid ongoing diplomatic tensions between the two countries. This is the first clear statement of support for India’s sovereignty since the fallout over Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s allegations last year that Indian government agents were “potentially” involved in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen and one of India’s most-wanted terrorists.
David Morrison, Canada’s Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, appeared before the foreign interference commission in Ottawa over the weekend and made Canada’s position clear: “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.”
However, regarding the activities of pro-Khalistan elements in Canada, Morrison explained that while some activities might be “awful,” they are still “lawful,” protected under the country’s Freedom of Speech laws. His remarks were aimed at clarifying Canada’s stance, especially in relation to Khalistani supporters, many of whom are Canadian citizens, and to signal a potential reset in the strained India-Canada relationship.
Tensions escalated last year after Trudeau accused India of possible involvement in Nijjar’s assassination. India dismissed the allegations as “absurd” and “motivated” and raised concerns over Canada’s leniency toward pro-Khalistan elements. Trudeau, however, stood firm, stating that Canada would continue to defend freedom of speech, peaceful protest, and the rule of law, while preventing violence and promoting harmony.
This diplomatic spat also impacted trade talks between the two nations, which were derailed amidst the controversy. In June this year, the Canadian parliament observed a moment of silence for Nijjar, while India held a memorial in Vancouver to honor the 329 victims of the 1985 Air India bombing carried out by Khalistani terrorists.
Hardeep Singh Nijjar, 45, was the chief of the banned Khalistan Tiger Force and was shot dead by two unidentified gunmen on June 18, 2023, outside a gurdwara in Surrey. The Canadian authorities have arrested four Indian nationals as part of their investigation into his death. India has reiterated its stance that separatist elements in Canada are being given political space, further complicating bilateral relations.