Why is Canada’s Prime Minister under fire for inviting India’s leader to the G7 Summit? That’s the big question sparking headlines and heated debates across the country.
In a move that’s left many Canadians—especially within the Sikh community—feeling shocked and betrayed, Prime Minister Mark Carney has confirmed that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the upcoming G7 Summit in Alberta from June 15 to 17.
Let’s break down what’s happening, why it matters, and what it could mean for Canada’s global relationships.
What’s the Controversy All About?
The backlash stems from a serious and sensitive issue: the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a prominent Sikh activist, on Canadian soil in 2023. Canadian police concluded that the murder was orchestrated by individuals linked to the “highest levels” of the Indian government.
Four Indian nationals in Canada have been charged, but India has consistently denied any involvement.
Despite this, Carney extended an official invitation to Modi, stating:
“India is the fifth largest economy in the world and central to global supply chains. We need to engage with India on critical issues like energy, AI, and minerals.”
While this makes strategic sense from a geopolitical and economic perspective, many believe the move dismisses the seriousness of the alleged state-sponsored killing.
How Has the Public Reacted?
Sikh Groups Are Outraged
The World Sikh Organization of Canada didn’t hold back. In a strongly worded statement, President Danish Singh said:
“For Sikhs in Canada, this is a betrayal—not just of our community but of core Canadian values. How can we roll out the red carpet for a country accused of orchestrating murders on Canadian soil?”
The sentiment here is clear: If leaders from countries like Russia or China were involved in similar incidents, they likely wouldn’t be invited. So why is India being treated differently?
Why Did Carney Invite Modi Anyway?
Carney emphasized diplomacy and economic pragmatism. He noted that:
- India is the world’s most populous country.
- It plays a crucial role in global trade, energy, and tech.
- It’s essential to have India “at the table” for discussions about the world’s future.
He also sidestepped direct questions about Modi’s alleged role in the Nijjar case, saying:
“There is a legal process that is well underway. It’s not appropriate to comment.”
It’s clear Carney is trying to walk a diplomatic tightrope—balancing justice, trade, and international relations.
What Are the Bigger Implications?
This isn’t just about one summit or one murder case. It reflects the broader challenge Canada faces when dealing with powerful nations accused of interference or human rights abuses.
At the same time, Carney’s government is actively trying to repair strained ties with several nations:
- He recently had a call with China’s Premier Li Qiang to open communication amid trade tensions.
- He’s in ongoing talks with U.S. President Donald Trump over tariffs on Canadian metals.
So, inviting Modi might be part of a wider diplomatic reset—but it’s clearly not without controversy.
What Happens Next?
The G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta will be one to watch closely. With leaders from the world’s most powerful democracies gathering, it’s not just economic issues on the agenda—human rights, state accountability, and foreign interference will also be in the spotlight.
Will Canada be able to balance its values with its interests? Or will the invitation to Modi deepen divides at home?
Stay tuned.
Conclusively: (For Featured Snippet Optimization):
Canada’s PM Mark Carney is facing backlash for inviting Indian PM Narendra Modi to the G7 Summit amid ongoing investigations into the murder of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Critics call the move a betrayal, while Carney cites India’s global importance. The summit runs June 15–17 in Alberta.
#G7Summit #CanadaIndia #ModiControversy #SikhJustice #MarkCarney