Critics are decrying a perceived double standard in Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s invitation to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the G7 summit. The World Sikh Organization, in particular, argues that Canada would never welcome leaders from Russia, China, or Iran under similar circumstances, given the allegations of Indian government involvement in the Hardeep Singh Nijjar murder.
Prime Minister Carney, during a press conference, avoided directly answering whether he believed Modi had a role in Nijjar’s assassination. He cited the ongoing “legal process that is literally under way and quite advanced in Canada,” stating it would be inappropriate to comment. Four Indian nationals have been charged in connection with the murder, which has severely strained Canada-India relations.
The G7 summit, scheduled for June 15-17 in Kananaskis, Alberta, is a key international forum. Carney justified Modi’s invitation by underscoring India’s global significance as the “fifth largest economy in the world” and the “most populous country,” and its centrality to global supply chains. He argued that engaging with India’s leader is essential for discussions on energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals.
This controversial invitation also aligns with Carney’s new government’s broader efforts to ease international tensions, including recent efforts to normalize communication with China and resolve trade disputes with the US. However, the strong criticism highlights the ethical dilemma Canada faces in balancing geopolitical interests with its commitment to human rights and justice.