The recent invitation extended to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the G7 Summit in Canada has sparked significant political and community reactions, particularly within Canada. Prime Minister Mark Carney and the ruling Liberal government have defended the invitation as a strategic decision based on India’s growing role in the global economy, its importance in supply chains, AI, and critical minerals. The government also intends to resume intelligence-sharing agreements with India, despite lingering tensions following the assassination of Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in 2023. While the ruling coalition maintains that diplomacy and national interests must take precedence, opposition parties have expressed mixed reactions. The Conservative Party acknowledges India’s geopolitical value but urges that human rights and accountability not be sacrificed.
Meanwhile, leaders from the New Democratic Party (NDP) and other opposition voices have sharply criticized the move, calling it insensitive and politically tone-deaf. The strongest backlash has come from the Sikh community in Canada. Organisations such as the World Sikh Organisation (WSO) have condemned the invitation as a betrayal, especially as it coincides with the anniversary of Nijjar’s murder. The gurdwara where Nijjar served as president has called on the Canadian government to suspend diplomatic ties with India until full cooperation is provided in the murder investigation. Community leaders, activists, and several gurdwaras are planning large-scale protests in Ottawa and at the G7 venue, calling Modi’s presence at the summit deeply offensive and a threat to Sikh safety. Despite these protests, Modi’s attendance is confirmed, and the summit is expected to include announcements about renewed bilateral intelligence cooperation. The issue has become a flashpoint, highlighting the tension between economic diplomacy and the demands for justice and human rights.