Canada’s decision to invite Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the upcoming G7 summit in Kananaskis, Alberta (June 15–17), has sparked fierce backlash. Critics say the move sidelines Sikh-Canadian concerns and complicates Canada’s stance on China. Here’s what’s unfolding:
Why the Controversy?
- Sikh groups plan to protest
Canadian Sikh organizations linked to the Khalistan movement are gearing up to rally during Modi’s appearance. They’ve accused the Canadian government of ignoring Punjab‑related grievances and human rights concerns . - World Sikh Organization voices outrage
Canada’s WSO slammed Prime Minister Mark Carney for the invitation, calling it a “betrayal of Canadian values” and dismissive of Sikh community sensitivities . - Journalists warn of extremist influence
A Canadian investigative writer flagged what they called “Khalistani extremism” in Canada, arguing that free speech protections might be misused to shield radical elements—adding to concerns over public safety .
Ottawa’s Strategic Move
• Economic & geopolitical rationale
Carney defended the invite by pointing to India’s massive economic role—it’s the world’s fifth-largest economy and a vital player in global supply chains for energy, AI, and critical minerals. He also noted the backing this move received from G6 nations .
• Geopolitical balancing with China
Canada is attempting to rebuild ties with India as part of a broader strategy to counterbalance China. G7 inclusion fits into this realignment even amid diplomatic turbulence over alleged Indian complicity in the killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada (theguardian.com).
Voices on All Sides
| Group | Position |
|---|---|
| Sikh‑Canadian activists & WSO | See Modi’s invitation as a profound betrayal and insensitive to Sikh‑diaspora concerns over Punjab and Nijjar’s killing (apnews.com, theguardian.com) |
| PM Carney & G6 allies | Emphasize India’s importance in global issues—citing economy, security, supply chains |
| Investigative journalists | Warn that extremist voices in Canada may be exploiting free‑speech protections to mobilize protests at the summit |
What’s at Stake
- Domestic spotlight: The summit’s security and optics hinge on whether protests unfold without tense confrontations.
- Diplomatic narrative: Canada is balancing reconciliation with India while managing fractured trust post-Nijjar episode.
- Geopolitical shift: Inviting Modi signals Canada’s pivot toward India in Asia policy—despite bilateral strains.
Bottom Line
Canada’s invite to PM Modi is more than a summit gesture—it’s a diplomatic tightrope. It represents a strategic tilt toward India amid concerns over China, but it’s also rebounding into Canada’s domestic and diaspora politics. The protests and polarized reactions highlight just how sensitive Canada’s position has become.
