India-Canada Rim: Ex-Diplomat Says Sanctions Are Ineffective Intimidation Tactic Against India

He describes sanctions as an overrated tool, saying India, with its $3 trillion economy, will not be intimidated and can impose countersanctions that would also harm the Canadian economy.

At the heart of the controversy is Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s recent accusation that Indian agents were involved in the murder of Khalistan activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Canadian police claim to have uncovered clear and convincing evidence, but India has dismissed the allegations as “absurd”, saying they are politically motivated.

Shringla sees Trudeau’s political maneuvering as the root of the problem. “Prime Minister Trudeau has sacrificed the entire India-Canada relationship for limited domestic political gains,” he said. According to him, Trudeau has always served a small anti-national and pro-separatist constituency in Canada, thus compromising both bilateral relations and the security of Canadian nationals.

“Political support from certain parties pushed Trudeau to compromise both bilateral relations and Canada’s security,” Shringla noted. He added that those involved in this situation have links to terrorism and organized crime, which endangers the security of Canadians.

Furthermore, the former diplomat noted that a commission of inquiry is expected to meet soon, which could name Indian officials as persons of interest in this ongoing investigation. “Our side has been clear: if there is involvement, provide evidence and let’s work through this together. So far, no concrete evidence has been provided, as even the ministry has acknowledged,” he said, expressing frustration with the lack of transparency from the Canadian government.

The diplomatic fallout saw India’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MEA) announce the withdrawal of its high commissioner and five other diplomats. “If Canada moves down this path, India will respond appropriately,” Shringla warned, noting that both sides have already taken steps that could lead to mutually harmful consequences.

The possibility of sanctions remains a hot topic, with Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly saying “all options are on the table.” However, Shringla believes that such measures would ultimately be counterproductive. “Sanctions would harm both economies and populations on both sides. If Canada decides to follow this path, we will have an appropriate response,” he said.

Relations between India and Canada are vital, marked by extensive economic ties and a large Indian diaspora in Canada, representing approximately 3% of the population. As Shringla pointed out, “Canada is investing $54 billion in pension funds in India, and bilateral trade is expected to reach nearly $10 billion in 2023.”

In light of the current situation, Shringla urged both governments to focus on collaboration rather than escalating tensions. “We can expel diplomats, sever relations or suspend official delegations and visas. India can also stop buying Canadian products, such as pulses and other products. Any further action will be calibrated and based on what Canada does next,” he explained.

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