Canada Must Reject Extremism In Dispute With India – OpEd

For generations, Canada's vibrant Indian diaspora has been an integral part of our society. From starting businesses to advancing our workforce, Indian immigrants have significantly contributed to Canada's growth and prosperity—just as they are doing in the U.S.

Today, Canada and India share a solid international trade relationship, with bilateral trade reaching USD $9.36 billion in 2023. Canadian Pension Funds have cumulatively invested over USD $75 billion in India, viewing it as an increasingly favourable investment destination. With a growing Indian diaspora of over 2 million people in Canada, the potential for future growth is immense. Yet, despite these encouraging figures, the current trade numbers fall short of the true potential between these two vibrant democracies.

A Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement has been a shared dream for many in both nations. A decade and a half in the making, this agreement would have greatly boosted economic ties. Yet, time and again, we've seen potential agreements halted by domestic political tensions, bringing us back to square one.

Recent events have pushed this relationship to an all-time low. Allegations from the Canadian government, still awaiting court verification, have cast doubt on these strong economic and social ties. Over a year ago, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen wanted in India for various crimes, was killed in British Columbia. Canada's defence of Nijjar without acknowledging his criminal background or his questionable path to permanent residency raises critical questions: How are individuals with criminal records gaining access to Canada, and how are they passing background checks? Canadians want, above all, to live in safety, and it is the duty of our government to ensure that those who seek asylum and security here pose no threat to our way of life.

For Canada to continue as a haven for a better life, we cannot allow individuals with questionable backgrounds to undermine the vision of peace and security that new Canadians seek. This moment calls for a larger reset in our political priorities, shifting focus from diaspora appeasement to Canadian national interests. Diversity is Canada's strength—one that should unite us in a shared Canadian dream, not divide us for short-term political gain.

This atmosphere of mistrust risks the enormous potential for cultural, social, and economic cooperation between Canada and India. India, currently experiencing rapid growth with an 8.2% economic rise in FY 2023-24, boasts booming sectors in manufacturing, technology, and healthcare. Canada's advanced technology, resources, and world-renowned agro-processing industry stand to gain from a more robust partnership with India. Yet, today's trade figures don't reflect the vast possibilities of a truly collaborative relationship. Experts suggest that with ambitious agreements, we could double or even triple our bilateral trade. But this requires a strong, trusting partnership built on mutual respect, sincerity, and continued positive engagement.

In a time when democracies like the U.S. and its allies are striving to counterbalance global challenges, conflict between Canada and India creates an unnecessary wedge. Instead of fostering unity, Canada's stance forces the U.S. to mediate between two of its closest allies, distracting from broader global priorities.

It's essential to clarify that the vast majority of the Indo-Canadian community are peace-loving and loyal to Canadian values. A small, extremist faction within the community may seek headlines, rallying vulnerable politicians to support their divisive agenda. Open, aggressive advocacy for the Khalistan cause has instilled fear across Sikh and Hindu populations. For those who remember the horrors of the 1980s, including the Air India tragedy that took 329 lives, these renewed calls for division are a painful reminder of dark times that no one wants to revisit.

Today, hate-filled slogans like "Hindus Go Back" and the vandalizing of Hindu temples are unacceptable in Canada. All members of the Indo-Canadian community—across religious and cultural backgrounds—deserve to live free from extremist narratives that do not reflect their values. It's tragic that in pursuing short-term political aims, the legitimate voices of the broader Sikh community, proud Canadians, have been overlooked. Most Sikhs have no ill-will towards anyone and continue to lead lives that contribute to Canada's economy and cultural fabric. We honour their heritage and contributions, and so do the people of India.

As Chair of the Canada India Foundation and a proud Indo-Canadian, I've witnessed the shared values of the Indo-Canadian community—peace, prosperity, freedom, and cooperation—that have historically brought Canada and India together. The current diplomatic standoff and its consequences are deeply regrettable. However, it is not too late to restore calm and pursue constructive dialogue.

Together, Canada and India can strengthen not only their bilateral relationship but also their partnerships with the U.S. and other democracies, driving a global vision where democratic values thrive.

I urge Canada's leaders to listen to the voices of the broader Indo-Canadian community, reject extremism in all forms, and rebuild the bonds that unite us all. It's time to prioritize unity, respect, and shared progress, ensuring that Canada's diverse society thrives and our partnership with India remains a model for mutual benefit and understanding.