Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau declared on Wednesday that India committed “a horrific mistake” by attempting to interfere so aggressively in Canada’s sovereignty. This statement followed Canada’s expulsion of six Indian diplomats, whom Trudeau linked to the murder of a Sikh separatist leader and alleged a broader campaign against Indian dissidents in Canada.
Trudeau’s remarks represent the strongest condemnation in a year-long diplomatic dispute that has severely strained relations between the two nations. Speaking during an independent inquiry into foreign interference in Canadian politics, he emphasized, “The Indian government made a horrific mistake in thinking that they could interfere as aggressively as they did in the safety and sovereignty of Canada.”
In response, India’s foreign ministry issued a brief statement, asserting that Trudeau’s comments reaffirmed New Delhi’s position that Canada has not provided evidence to back its claims against Indian diplomats. The ministry added, “The responsibility for the damage caused to India-Canada relations lies with Prime Minister Trudeau alone.”
Trudeau mentioned that Ottawa might take additional measures to safeguard Canadians but did not elaborate on those potential actions. In a reciprocal move, India has expelled six Canadian diplomats amidst the escalating tensions.
