A diplomatic firestorm is brewing following Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s expected attendance at the G7 Summit in Alberta, Canada, from June 15–17, 2025. The invitation, extended by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, reportedly includes a condition that India cooperate on law enforcement matters relating to the investigation of the 2023 killing of Canadian citizen Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
According to investigative reports published by The Wire and international outlets including Reuters and The Guardian, Canada’s outreach to India was contingent upon its willingness to engage in discussions around cross-border criminal activity and ongoing investigations. Canadian officials have maintained that the invitation reflects a broader G7 objective to uphold international law and human rights through multilateral cooperation.
Until recently, India had categorically denied any involvement in Nijjar’s death and has dismissed Canada’s accusations as baseless and politically motivated. However, the Modi government’s decision to accept Canada’s terms for law enforcement dialogue is being interpreted by observers as a shift from denial to tacit acceptance—raising questions about whether India is, in effect, acknowledging responsibility.
This development has triggered a strong response from Sikh diaspora groups in Canada, particularly those advocating for Khalistani independence. Protests are being organized to coincide with Modi’s visit, with demonstrators calling for justice in Nijjar’s killing and criticizing what they describe as Canada’s willingness to “normalize relations” at the expense of accountability.
Critics within India have also expressed concern over the optics of the visit. “Attending the G7 Summit under these conditions diminishes India’s sovereignty,” said one analyst. “It sets a dangerous precedent to appear compliant under foreign pressure.” Others argue that with former U.S. President Donald Trump also attending the summit, Modi may face difficult conversations about India–Pakistan ceasefire agreements and regional security, further complicating his diplomatic standing.
Prime Minister Carney has defended the decision, stating that engagement with India remains essential for addressing global challenges such as climate change, economic recovery, and international security. He emphasized that Canada’s invitation was rooted in a commitment to dialogue—but made clear that cooperation on law enforcement was a key prerequisite.
As preparations for the summit continue, tensions remain high. The broader implications of this diplomatic exchange are expected to reverberate beyond the G7 meeting, shaping the future of Canada–India relations, the role of diaspora politics, and the global conversation on justice and sovereignty.