New Delhi: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau found himself in the spotlight at the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York when he faced questions regarding India’s dismissal of his assertions about Indian agents’ involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a wanted Khalistani terrorist. Trudeau, who had made these claims earlier in the week, was notably evasive in response to inquiries from journalist Yoshita Singh.

As diplomatic tensions between India and Canada escalate, Trudeau faced two distinct instances of questioning during his presence at the United Nations. Journalist Yoshita Singh sought his reaction to India categorizing his claims as “absurd and motivated.” However, on both occasions, Trudeau chose to avoid addressing the issue and instead responded with a smile before departing with his entourage.

The encounters were captured on video and shared on Yoshita Singh’s social media account. She noted, “Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and UN Headquarters. On both occasions, he didn’t answer questions on the allegations against India.”

My #Exclusive @PTI_News : #Canadian Prime Minister @JustinTrudeau @UN Headquarters. On both occasions, didn’t answer question on his allegations against #India. pic.twitter.com/xWxEogBZp7

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— Yoshita Singh योषिता सिंह (@Yoshita_Singh) September 21, 2023

What is the ongoing India-Canada diplomatic dispute?

The ongoing diplomatic dispute between India and Canada has reached an unprecedented low, leading to several developments. India recently suspended all visa services for Canadians until further notice, citing security threats to Indian diplomats in Canada as a significant concern affecting their daily operations.

Arindam Bagchi, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, revealed that India is also working to rebalance the number of diplomats from both countries, emphasizing the need for parity in diplomatic representation.

Bagchi dismissed Trudeau’s allegations as “false” and “politically motivated.” He pointed out that Ottawa had not shared any evidence or material substantiating the claims made by the Canadian Prime Minister.

The dispute shows no signs of immediate resolution, and the diplomatic relationship between the two nations remains strained, with significant consequences for bilateral cooperation and engagement.