As the diplomatic tensions between India and Canada escalate, Canadian journalist Daniel Bordman has raised concerns over Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s leadership and credibility. According to Bordman, there is a significant loss of trust in Trudeau among both Canadians and the Indian government, further deepening the rift between the two nations.
India Recalls Diplomats, Reflecting Widening Divide
Bordman pointed out that the Indian government’s decision to recall its High Commissioner and other diplomats signals the gravity of the situation. He highlighted the involvement of Khalistani elements, stating, “There are elements within the Khalistani apparatus… They are taking this as a total victory and slamming India.”
Canadian Public Disillusionment with Trudeau
Bordman emphasized that many Canadians are increasingly disillusioned with Trudeau’s handling of the diplomatic fallout. “Vast majority of Canadians are incredibly fed up with this government. (They) don’t believe the institutions, don’t see the media as credible, don’t see Justin Trudeau as credible,” Bordman said, adding that many Canadians may even sympathize with India in this conflict.
Diplomatic Freeze: India-Canada Relations on Hold
Bordman suggested that India has effectively “paused” its relations with Canada until there is a leadership change. He described the current situation as “cryostasis” for India-Canada relations, saying, “The state of the India-Canada relationship right now would be cryostasis… I think the Indians have kind of just put Canada in a cryo pod until we get a new government.”
He further remarked that the Indian government does not consider Trudeau to be a reasonable leader, especially given his alliance with Jagmeet Singh, whom Bordman described as “openly hostile” toward India.
Prolonged Diplomatic Standoff Predicted
Bordman predicted that the diplomatic freeze could last at least another year unless Canada sees an early election. He suggested that a new government, particularly a conservative one with an anti-terrorism and pro-India stance, might take a different approach to relations with India. “When there’s a new government… I think things will light up again,” he said.
Allegations and Expulsions Deepen the Conflict
The diplomatic rift has intensified following allegations by Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Commissioner Mike Duheme, claiming criminal activity linked to Indian government agents. This led to both nations expelling diplomats from each other’s embassies. India, in response to Canada’s actions, summoned Canada’s Charge d’Affaires Stewart Wheeler, strongly rejecting Canada’s allegations against its diplomats and officials, calling them “baseless” and part of Trudeau’s political agenda.
Accusations Against Trudeau’s Government
India has accused Trudeau’s government of fostering an environment that enables extremists and terrorists to threaten Indian diplomats and community leaders in Canada. The relationship between the two countries further deteriorated after Trudeau alleged Indian involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, claims that India has strongly denied, calling them “absurd” and “motivated.”
In conclusion, the diplomatic standoff between India and Canada remains unresolved, with tensions likely to persist unless there is a change in leadership in Canada. The ongoing conflict has raised concerns about the future of bilateral relations, trade, and cooperation between the two nations.
