Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has found himself embroiled in a diplomatic dispute with India, one that has raised eyebrows and sparked tensions between the two nations. The controversy stems from Trudeau’s recent allegations of potential Indian involvement in the killing of Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil. India swiftly rebuffed these accusations, deeming them “ridiculous” and “politically motivated.” In retaliation, Canada expelled a high-ranking Indian diplomat, further escalating the diplomatic standoff.
India’s Response: Temporary Halt on Visa Services and Precautionary Advisory
In response to Prime Minister Trudeau’s allegations, India has taken decisive measures. The country temporarily suspended its visa services in Canada and issued a precautionary advisory to Indian citizens and travelers bound for Canada. This advisory urged extreme caution due to the increasing incidents of anti-India activities, politically sanctioned hate crimes, and criminal violence within Canada.
Canada’s Allegations: Lack of Specific Evidence
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, representing India, highlighted the absence of specific evidence provided by Canada to substantiate its allegations against Indian involvement in the killing. While expressing India’s willingness to investigate any pertinent information, Jaishankar emphasized that the accusations did not align with the official policy of the Indian government.
Trudeau’s Motivation: Domestic Challenges and Declining Popularity
The question arises: Why did Prime Minister Trudeau make these allegations against India without concrete proof? One possible explanation could be his declining popularity and a series of challenges he faces both domestically and on the global stage. According to reports, Trudeau’s approval ratings have plummeted to a historic low of 27%, a situation exacerbated by various factors.
Domestic Challenges: Economic Struggles and Healthcare Concerns
Among the domestic challenges affecting Trudeau’s popularity is the growing discontent among middle-class Canadians, who feel financially squeezed, particularly due to soaring home prices and an increasingly inaccessible housing market. Migration policies, including plans to increase immigration levels, have also met with resistance, further fueling public skepticism. Additionally, Canada’s healthcare system is strained, with backlogs for essential medical procedures and a shortage of family doctors, contributing to public dissatisfaction.
Foreign Policy Challenges: NATO Dissatisfaction and Strained Relations
Trudeau’s foreign policy challenges extend beyond the Canada-India dispute. Canada’s NATO allies have expressed dissatisfaction with the nation’s modest defense expenditure, which falls below the alliance’s recommended levels. Relations with China have soured following the arrest of two Canadians in 2018 on espionage charges. Diplomatic ties with Saudi Arabia have only recently started to improve.
Perception of Weak Leadership
Trudeau’s response to domestic protests has also stirred controversy, particularly among right-wing factions. His perceived inability to effectively navigate these challenges has contributed to a perception of weak leadership.
Conclusion: Uphill Battle for Trudeau
Trudeau’s diminishing popularity is undeniable, and he now faces an uphill battle to maintain his political influence and fulfill his ambitions for a fourth consecutive term. As he grapples with an increasingly disillusioned public and a host of pressing domestic and foreign issues, the diplomatic row with India adds another layer of complexity to his leadership.
