What are the causes behind the escalating tensions between India and Canada | Explained
Analyze the factors contributing to the worsening relations between India and Canada.
- Trade Disputes: One of the key factors contributing to the worsening relations between India and Canada is trade disputes. Canada's restrictions on import of certain agricultural products like pulses from India, citing concerns over plant health, have irked Indian exporters. India has retaliated with higher import duties on Canadian products such as lentils and chickpeas.
- Canadian Criticism on Human Rights: Canada's criticism of India's human rights record, specifically regarding the handling of protests by farmers, has further strained relations. Canada's Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, expressed support for the farmers' protests, which was seen as interfering in India's internal affairs.
- Khalistani Extremism: The presence of Sikh separatist groups in Canada, advocating for a separate Sikh state of Khalistan, has become a contentious issue for India. India has accused Canada of not doing enough to curb the activities of these groups and their fundraising efforts on Canadian soil.
- Diplomatic Spat: The recent diplomatic spat between the two countries, involving the expulsion of certain Indian and Canadian diplomats, has escalated tensions. This was triggered by allegations of espionage by Canada, which India denied.
- Geopolitical Factors: The geopolitical landscape, including Canada's close ties with China, and India's border standoff with China, has also played a role in strained relations. Canada's decision to extradite a Chinese Huawei executive to the United States, despite objections from China, has affected its relations with India.
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