Canada’s intelligence agency has identified India as the country’s second-most pervasive state actor involved in foreign interference, renewing attention on tensions between Ottawa and New Delhi. China remains the leading source, according to the assessment cited in recent reporting.
The findings highlight concerns about alleged attempts to influence Canadian political processes, public institutions and communities. They also come as both countries seek to improve diplomatic relations following years of disputes over Sikh separatist activists and alleged transnational repression.
CSIS Highlights Alleged Indian Influence
The Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) says Indian officials and individuals allegedly linked to Indian intelligence have sought to influence political and social affairs in Canada.
According to the assessment, foreign interference can involve covert relationships, deceptive activities and pressure on politicians, community organizations and other institutions. Canadian authorities distinguish these activities from legitimate diplomatic engagement.
The report also highlights transnational repression, a term used for efforts by governments or their proxies to monitor, intimidate or threaten critics living abroad.
Such activities can include surveillance, threats, pressure on relatives and information campaigns. Canadian officials have raised particular concerns about supporters of the Khalistan movement, which advocates an independent Sikh homeland.
However, CSIS has emphasized that peaceful support for Khalistan does not automatically constitute extremism. Lawful political advocacy remains protected in Canada.
Nijjar Killing Deepened Diplomatic Tensions
Relations between Canada and India deteriorated sharply in 2023 after then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Canadian authorities were investigating potential links between Indian government agents and the killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia.
India denied involvement and accused Canada of allowing separatist groups to operate on its territory. The dispute led to diplomatic expulsions and strained relations between the two countries.
Canadian authorities have continued investigating alleged criminal activities linked to Indian networks. However, allegations concerning government involvement must remain distinct from independently established legal findings.
US Case Adds to International Concerns
Concerns about alleged transnational repression have also emerged in the United States. American prosecutors pursued a case involving an alleged murder-for-hire plot targeting Sikh activist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a US citizen.
Prosecutors alleged that an individual connected to Indian intelligence had a role in the plot. India has denied wrongdoing and said it takes the allegations seriously.
The case has added scrutiny to claims that activists living abroad face threats linked to political disputes in their countries of origin.
Canada and India Face a Diplomatic Challenge
The latest assessment comes as Ottawa and New Delhi explore ways to rebuild their relationship. Potential discussions include diplomatic cooperation, trade negotiations and a broader roadmap for bilateral engagement.
Nevertheless, foreign interference allegations and concerns about the safety of Sikh activists remain sensitive issues for both governments.
The findings underscore the challenge of improving relations while addressing national security concerns. Any lasting progress will depend on diplomatic engagement, credible investigations and how both countries respond to the allegations.
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