Relations between India and Canada have been deteriorating for over a year. Despite India's objections, Khalistan encourages and supports terrorists and their leaders, damaging the relationship. In response to Canada's earlier expulsion of India's diplomatic representative, India expelled Canada's representative, shaking the relationship. After the head of the Khalistan Tiger Force, Hardiv Singh Nijjar, was shot dead by unknown assailants on the US-Canada border in June 2023, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made anti-India statements in the Canadian Parliament. He claimed that security agencies were investigating a "credible" allegation that Indian intelligence officials were involved in Nijjar's death leading Canada to expel top Indian intelligence agency official Pawan Kumar Rai.

Canada initiated the process of expelling an Indian official without evidence, based on false allegations. India's Ministry of External Affairs stated that these allegations were absurd and lacked evidence. In response, India fired Oliver Sylvester, the head of Canada's intelligence service. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar clarified that India was seriously concerned about Canada becoming a hub for Khalistan activities, particularly with its strengthening in the US, UK and Australia.

A significant increase in the Sikh population has been noted in these countries and Trudeau's government is seen as encouraging them to target their vote bank. History warns against sheltering and aiding separatists in other countries, likening it to nursing a snake that ultimately bites the hand that feeds it. Canada may come to recognize this reality sooner rather than later. The latest controversy arose when Trudeau attended a pro-Khalistan event, prompting strong protests from India. India expressed its displeasure by summoning the Canadian Deputy Commissioner in India.

Trudeau and the opposition leader attended the Sikh Khalsa Day event in Toronto, where pro-Khalistan slogans were raised as they entered the stage and during their speeches. Trudeau did not denounce this behavior but instead emphasized protecting freedom of expression and Sikh rights. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs condemned Trudeau's stance, stating that it further worsened the relationship between the two countries and encouraged a violent atmosphere. The future of the India-Canada relationship may indeed resemble that of hostile nations if such actions persist. Kerala, with tens of thousands of residents working and studying in Canada, is understandably concerned about this situation.