News Brief
Favourable Views Of India Among Canadians Plummet Amid Escalating Diplomatic Tensions, Finds Survey
India-Canada Diplomatic Tensions
India-Canada bilateral relations have significantly deteriorated, marked by accusations, diplomatic expulsions, and a stark decline in public perception of India among Canadians.
A recent survey conducted by the Angus Reid Institute (ARI) in collaboration with the Asia-Pacific Foundation of Canada (APF Canada) highlights the impact of these tensions on Canadian public opinion.
The survey revealed that 60 per cent of Canadians hold an unfavourable view of India.
“Favourable views of India have plummeted from a high of 56% in January 2020 to 26% today. The inverse negative view has more than doubled." the survey noted.
The diplomatic row began in September last year when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged in the House of Commons that there were “credible allegations” linking Indian agents to the killing of pro-Khalistan figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, British Columbia.
The situation worsened in October this year when Ottawa accused six Indian diplomats of involvement in violent criminal activities, resulting in their expulsion and a reciprocal action by New Delhi.
While Canadian public sentiment towards India has soured, 64 per cent of survey respondents still support cautious engagement in trade negotiations with India, reflecting a pragmatic approach amidst global trade uncertainties.
At the same time, the Canadian government, led by Trudeau, is facing criticism for its handling of the India-Canada relationship.
According to the survey, 39 per cent of respondents believe that Ottawa is not managing ties well, compared to 32 per cewnt who believe otherwise.
Nadjibulla pointed out that, “there is a recognition that, especially in the Canadian context, that this looks very much as personalised.”
Looking ahead, the public’s mistrust of India may influence any future government in Ottawa.
With Trudeau trailing in domestic polls ahead of the 2025 federal election, the negativity surrounding India-Canada relations could persist, impacting bilateral ties irrespective of the ruling government.
“In a democracy like Canada public opinion matters and this kind of situation where the majority of Canadians want to approach India with caution or have low levels of trust or don’t see it as a friendly state, that will have implications for any future government in Ottawa," Nadjibulla said.
