As India and Canada work to ease diplomatic tensions, India’s High Commissioner to Canada, Dinesh Patnaik, has dismissed Ottawa’s allegations linking Indian diplomats to criminal activities such as homicides and extortion. Speaking in an interview with CTV’s Question Period, Patnaik described the accusations as “preposterous and absurd,” stressing that New Delhi is still awaiting concrete evidence from Canadian authorities.
Patnaik said that discussions between both nations have recently focused on overall security issues, particularly the activities of Khalistani groups operating within Canada. He emphasised that such extremist threats are a domestic concern for Canada, not India. “Canada cannot look at this situation as an Indian problem. It’s a Canadian problem. There are Canadians who are creating this problem,” he asserted.
Expressing concern over personal security, Patnaik said he found it unusual that an Indian envoy required protection in a country like Canada. He added that conversations between both governments now include mutual safety concerns, covering not only Indian diplomats in Canada but also Canadian nationals in India.
The High Commissioner’s remarks came amid continuing diplomatic strain following Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s 2023 claim of “credible” evidence linking Indian agents to the killing of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Earlier this year, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and federal authorities accused Indian officials of engaging in covert operations, leading to the expulsion of diplomats on both sides.
Reiterating India’s stance, Patnaik said no proof has been shared to substantiate such claims. “We are still waiting for evidence. These allegations are preposterous and absurd,” he said, maintaining that India has never conducted extraterritorial actions. “We never have, and we never will,” he added.
Efforts are underway to rebuild dialogue and trust between the two nations. Senior security officials from both sides have recently resumed meetings, with RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme and National Security Advisor Nathalie Drouin describing talks with Indian counterparts as constructive and focused on shared security concerns.
Canadian Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree, when asked about the potential risks associated with Indian diplomats’ return, avoided direct comment but assured that Ottawa would prioritise the safety of its citizens. “We will ensure the safety and security of Canadians while maintaining bilateral relations that foster trust,” he said.
The broader debate over Khalistani extremism continues to shape India–Canada relations, with both sides emphasising dialogue but remaining divided on accountability and evidence.
