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By Sanjay Turi Instead of pursuing truth or justice, Canada holds on to politically driven accusations, designed to distract from its own failures. The current diplomatic tensions between India and Canada following India's alleged involvement in the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar- a notorious Khalistani terrorist - highlight how the phenomenon of migration and ethnic diasporas are increasingly determining the foreign policies of host countries. The contemporary scenario is marked with acclaimed migration as one of the topmost highly-debated political issues around the globe. People of liberal states are sharply divided among themselves in their ideologies over the issue of migration. The proponents tilt towards the idea of providing refuge to them for humanitarian considerations and global equality awareness. In contrast, the opponents argue against the same by claiming that the influx of migrants poses a serious threat to the job opportunities and survival of native groups. The current scenario in Canada, where the Sikh diaspora has exerted tremendous influence on foreign policy, highlights this tension in the context of global migrations. The mere fact that the Sikh community has played a significant role in shaping Canada’s internal and external policies, especially with respect to its ties with India, is again bringing this conflict into focus regarding whether migration among the countries should be encouraged or not. Currently, Canada is under a coalition government , where the Liberal Party of Canada (LPC), led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau governs along with the New Democratic Party ( NDP ) led by Jagmeet Singh. That role is particularly important for Canada-India relations as the transborder migration of the Sikh community has continued to shape the foreign policy of the host country. The Sikh presence in Canada dates back to the late 19th century. Today, they have prospered and emerged as one of the most important minority groups in the country, known for their active participation in politics and economic success. The Canadian Sikh diaspora, today with more than 700,000  Sikhs is one of the largest Sikh populations outside India, with strong concentrations in provinces such as British Columbia, Ontario and Alberta. There are stages of Sikh migration to Canada, but a large number of Sikhs in Canada primarily came from families who immigrated during times of political turmoil in India, especially in the 1980s when tensions between the Indian government and Sikh separatist movements were at their height. Though Sikh diaspora makes up a prominent part of Canadian political life, with leaders like Jagmeet Singh, chief of the New Democratic Party, and many other Sikh members of Canadian parliament as well as cabinet ministers. This has, in turn, influenced Canadian politicians to address the Sikh community’s concerns, related to human rights and religious liberty as well as India’s internal politics, which in turn continues to affect Canada’s foreign policy stance toward India   While the Khalistan movement has decreased significantly in India, it still holds significant support among certain radical Sikh groups within Canada. Khalistani activists in Canada, where they have been able to hold referendums and protests among other events in support of the separatist movement that India sees as a serious threat to its sovereignty, territorial integrity and national security. The Indian government is continuously expressing concerns about the pro-Khalistani groups being active in Canada, accusing the so-called " liberal " Canadian government of supporting extremism and terrorism. It has been urged time and again by the Government of India to crack down on such groups, but Ottawa under domestic political pressure is quite ignorant and soft on them. This attitude of the Canadian government continues to fuel the diplomatic row between India and Canada in recent times. Canada, for its part, defends these activities on the grounds of freedom of speech and expression, enshrined in its constitution. Prime Minister Trudeau has repeatedly emphasised that Canada does not agree with the Khalistan movement, but strongly believes in allowing its citizens to express their political views peacefully. That view of the Trudeau government is interpreted by many as a bid to win the support of Canada's Sikh community – more than 2.1%  of its population and thus a sizable voting bloc. Therefore, even if Prime Minister Trudeau wishes to strengthen relations with India and respect its territorial integrity by cracking down on Sikh separatists living in Canada, he(Trudeau) would face substantial domestic pressure from the Sikh population, resulting in a significant decline in his electoral performance.   Trudeau’s reliance on the NDP, which has a very strong Sikh base, further complicates matters. Having recently survived two no-confidence motions , Trudeau cannot afford to alienate his coalition partner, Jagmeet Singh, or risk losing Sikh support ahead of the general election expected to be held next year in October.  This is exacerbated by the fact that Trudeau's government highly depends on the New Democratic Party(NDP) — a party with strong Sikh support, probably playing the role of King-Maker.   The recent diplomatic tension between Canada and India is a microcosm of a wider trend in global politics — where migration and diaspora politics are shaping home-grown policy more than ever before. Across the European continent, concerns about immigration—often framed in terms of national security, cultural preservation, and economic impact—are unilaterally driving political discourse in society. The negative impact of the Sikh Diaspora within Canada which impacts its foreign policy is perhaps a warning or wake-up call for multicultural societies such as European states. This seems to be possibly fuelling a further backlash against immigration. This may potentially lead to stricter policies on immigration and deportation of migrants globally, disproportionately affecting African and Asian communities who often come from disadvantaged backgrounds in search of better lives.   Mr Kofi Annan, former UN Secretary-General,  was a strong supporter of state sovereignty , once said in his speech that interfering in another country's internal affairs has the potential to undermine international cooperation and peace. He also said that supporting separatist groups for political benefits, generally results in "an endless cycle of retaliation" that harms the existing global multilateral cooperations for the greater good and undermines the idea of diplomacy in International Relations. Therefore, to promote the idea of Vashudaiv Kutumbakam  and prevent any such confrontations, countries, today, must follow the directions provided by the former UN Secretary-General, Kofi Annan. #Canada #Diaspora #India This is an Original Contribution to the SIS Blog Sanjay Turi is a Doctoral Candidate at the Centre for West Asian Studies (CWAS), School of International Studies(SIS), Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi.

By Madhulika, Snehil Shukla, Sayantan Bandyopadhyay, Nadeem Iquebal, Chandan Kamath, Vijaylaxmi Pal At the heart of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), Ganga Dhaba stands humbly as a buzzing hub of ideas and debate, where conversations flow as freely as the chai and debates echo into the cool evening air. Small in structure but immense in significance, Ganga Dhaba serves as a gathering ground for students, faculty, research scholars, and visitors alike, drawn in by its affordable tea and snacks, priced to be accessible to all. More than just a spot for late-night refreshments, it has become an enduring symbol of JNU's ethos of intellectual freedom, critical dialogue, and democratic spirit.   Originally established in the 1980s by Bharat Tomar as a humble tea stall, Ganga Dhaba swiftly evolved into a central hub for the university community, where students engage in passionate debates on subjects ranging from Marxism and feminism to caste politics and foreign policy, often continuing late into the night. “Despite its modest size, Ganga Dhaba has preserved its affordability, with a cup of chai costing just Rs. 10 and an aloo paratha also at Rs. 10, ensuring it remains accessible to students from all walks of life,” shared Harish, the current shop manager.   This unassuming eatery has been frequented by some of India’s most influential intellectuals and politicians during their formative years in JNU, many of whom credit their political awakening to the late-night discussions at Ganga Dhaba. Figures like Sitaram Yechury, Nirmala Sitharaman, and S. Jaishankar, have all spent evenings immersed in debate here, surrounded by fellow students as eager to discuss the intricacies of global affairs as they were to unpack domestic issues. For those who sat on these stone benches with steaming cups of chai, Ganga Dhaba was nothing less than an open classroom where ideas could be tested, arguments refined, and perspectives broadened. More than a place for debates, Ganga Dhaba is a sanctuary for dissent and activism, integral to JNU’s culture of social and political engagement. When the university administration threatened to close it for nonpayment of dues, modernization, and hygiene reasons, students rallied to preserve it. To them, the Dhaba was more than a food joint—it was the heart of campus life, embodying camaraderie, learning, and resilience.   With the U.S. presidential elections taking centre stage, Ganga Dhaba has become a hub for lively discussions. On the night of November 5th, doctoral scholars gathered at the Dhaba, sipping chai and munching on samosas, as they debated how the election’s outcome might impact India's future. Nikhil Biswas from the Centre for African Studies, School of International Studies, sipped his coffee while passionately endorsing Trump. He argued that Trump’s approach, particularly on Syria, favoured stability by leaving it to Russia, and he dismissed the possibility of the U.S. embracing a female president anytime soon. Nearby sat Dhirendra Kumar of the Centre for South Asian Studies, who countered Nikhil’s view with his support for Kamala Harris. He appreciated her inclusive policies and her Indian heritage, which he believed could foster stronger ties with India. Dhirendra highlighted what he saw as Trump’s patriarchal stance, restrictive immigration policies, and the hurdles he posed for Indians pursuing education and work in the U.S. The debate intensified as Nikhil defended Trump’s appeal to everyday Americans facing high living costs and job crises.   Nitish Kumar, a Ph.D. scholar from the Centre for Russian and Central Asian Studies, then chimed in, drawing attention to the potential disruptions in trade policy under another Trump presidency. He explained that Trump has previously labelled India a “Tariff King” and a “very big abuser” in trade, pointing out that India’s average tariff rate of 17% far exceeds those of Japan, the U.S., and the EU. Alok, who stood beside him sipping a bottle of Lahori Zeera, added that Trump’s “America First” policy had already led to tariffs on Indian steel and aluminium in his previous term. “That’s why I’m hoping for Kamala’s win,” he remarked.   As the discussion unfolded, some students from Jamia Millia Islamia, waiting for friends nearby, joined in. Their perspective added a sobering dimension to the conversation. One Jamia student remarked, “It doesn’t matter whether Kamala wins or Trump; the ongoing genocide in Gaza is likely to continue.” Another added, “I’m not interested in the U.S. election at all. It’s not going to do any good for the people of Palestine.” The debate took a more reflective turn when an alumnus from the Centre for the Study of Social Systems joined, cautioning that renewed U.S.-China tensions could negatively impact India. He suggested that Trump’s relationship with American voters might see him through, even as he doubted Harris’s call for “a new generation of leaders” would resonate. As the night grew colder, Sankhar Da, the owner of the neighbouring saloon, strolled by, musing, “It doesn’t matter who wins as long as there’s a peaceful transition of power.” His words brought a calm end to the conversation, underscoring the Dhaba’s role as a democratic space where diverse opinions clash yet ultimately converge around a shared commitment to India’s future in a complex global order. In this spirited corner of JNU, students blend the personal with the political as they refine their perspectives on international relations, blending the personal with the political. #JNU #GangaDhabha #USElections This is an Original Contribution to the SIS Blog. Sayantan Bandyopadhyay, Madhulika, Nadeem Iquebal, Snehil Shukla, Vijaylaxmi Pal, and Chandan Kamath are Doctoral Research Scholars at the School of International Studies, JNU.

By Kuldeep Ojha The Chilean Foreign Minister His Excellency Mr. Alberto Van Klaveren’s visit to India during the last week of August 2024 marked a significant touchpoint in the Indo-Chile bilateral ties. As the first such visit in the past decade, it facilitated progress on trade, investment, environment and technological cooperation between the two Global South actors. On India’s part, the renewed momentum in ties with the Latin American state demonstrates its diplomatic commitment to engaging with the Global South on win-win terms. In an uncertain geopolitical environment, both India and Chile are prudently diversifying into new set of diplomatic ties beyond their traditional concerns to hedge their bets and achieve their foreign policy goals through new avenues. The foreign minister’s visit also included a sojourn to India’s premier international relations institution, the School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). A key element of his address included the promotion of education and knowledge exchange between the two countries. Welcomed by Professor Amitabh Mattoo, the Dean of the School of International Studies, the Minister addressed Chile’s role in world geopolitics and the potential for bilateral cooperation in the fields of trade, diplomacy, education and business. In this article, based on the Minister’s remarks at JNU, this article analyzes the current state of India-Chile  bilateral relationship and future avenue for cooperation. Economic Cooperation: Expanding Trade and Investment Ties India and Chile are strengthening trade cooperation, particularly in the areas of agriculture, pharmaceuticals and staple foods. The Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) , signed between the two countries in 2006, has played a significant role in reducing customs duties on over 1,000 products. The trade composition majorly consists of India’s imports of Chilean fruits and wines and its export of agricultural products and medicines. The key focus of the Chilean foreign minister’s visit included the discussion on the introduction of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the two countries. During the bilateral talks with the Commerce Minister of India, Mr. Piyush Goyal, both parties stressed the need for the development of economic cooperation through the framework of market access and cooperation in a new and promising field for Chile and India, namely, critical minerals. The Chile-India Business (Agriculture) Summit in Mumbai  also proved its ability to bring back the agricultural trade between the two countries. Efforts have also been made to address the longstanding concerns regarding sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures, a move deemed crucial to spur fresh supplies of commodities including basmati rice, rose and kidney beans among others. Chile on its part wants to secure the portion of the Indian market share of wines and nuts.    Critical Minerals: Promoting Green Energy Collaboration Out of all the sectors for collaboration that was under discussion during the visit, one of the most crucial one included critical mineral. As the global leader in the lithium ore segment and the second largest producer of copper, Chile holds an important position in the global supply chain of renewable energy sources. India’s growing appetite for electric vehicle (EV) and renewable energy has created an immediate need for these minerals, most importantly lithium which is used for battery production. Moreover, China’s remarkable domination of the EV market and critical mineral supply chain provide an additional incentive on part of India to collaborate with Chile. The obvious rationale, when it comes to the strategic thinking of cutting the risks of economic over-dependence, could not be clearer in New Delhi’s equations. On the Chilean side, such political importance of economic interdependence and the need to diversify its markets could be the reasons that explain the keen interest to court a rising India. The Chilean Foreign Minister’s invitation to Indian firms to invest in lithium mining in Chile is a geopolitical chance for India to secure the supply of the mineral crucial to green transition. The gaining of technical know-how and a foothold in the lithium supply chain are to be counted as the long-term benefits for the Indian business sector. The collaboration further has the potential to result in technological exchange and joint partnerships around sustainable mining operations for economic and environmental benefits. Aligning Interests and Values in the Strategic Partnership India and Chile share a common ground in their commitment to democracy, human rights, and sustainable development. These shared values have the potential to serve as the bedrock of the growing bilateral relation. Both India and Chile support the use of diplomacy and peaceful means to resolve global problems and are committed to the rules-based international order. India’s EAM S Jaishankar has already expressed his appreciation for Chile’s support to India’s bid for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council. The Chilean minister’s speech at JNU touched upon the synergy between the two nations on international order, especially the agenda of reforming multilateral institutions. Consequently, in future, Indian diplomacy may do well to coordinate its position with Chile in international forums on matters of global importance.  The strategic dimension of the bilateral relationship has also attracted quite a lot of diplomatic interest because the conversation has been colored by the possibility of cooperation in the spheres of defense, technology and space. Leading private Indian defence sector actors, including BrahMos, Azista Industries and Goa Shipyard Limited, are involved in discussions with the Chilean Armed Forces to gain access to the lucrative market. MKU Limited has recently exhibited its latest products at FIDAE (International Air and Space Fair) 2024 , in turn consolidating the Indian footprint in Chile’s defence acquisitions market. The vast potential for the defence export on part of India remains untapped and the future performance of Indian firms deserve a close watch. As for the potential for deepening bilateral cooperation, another set of concerned activities include the current negotiations over the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). While the full details are not available, the likely affected areas include cybersecurity, green energy, climate action, poverty reduction. The Chilean minister also paid much attention to regional integration in Latin America and Asia, where India and Chile can potentially take the leading part to address climate change, economic inequality, and global health issues. India’s prowess in generic medicines, expertise in the HADR missions, and promotion of the solar alliance can readily serve as the diplomatic blueprint to provide public goods in these regions.  Conclusion In conclusion, the momentum in the bilateral relationship warrants an optimistic outlook of the future trajectory, despite a rapidly developing Sino-Latin American relations, and substantial geographical and linguistic barriers between India-Latin America. The Chilean foreign minister’s visit to New Delhi and JNU serve to highlight the Latin American nation’s commitment to improve the relation with India by investing in people to people ties and scholarly exchanges. The visit also demonstrates India’s rising profile and its adroit diplomatic conduct, as well as the continued importance of JNU as the leading hub of IR scholarship in India. #IndiaChile This Article is an Original Contribution to the SIS Blog and is based on an open event not subject to the Chatham House Rules. Kuldeep Ojha is a PhD scholar in Latin American Studies at SIS, JNU. His research focuses on environmental governance in Central America, and his interests extend to the Latin American region and its geopolitics.

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