The escalating tensions between Canada and India have taken a dramatic turn with a recent statement from Venessa Llyod, the interim director of the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS). During her testimony before the Foreign Interference Commission in September, Lloyd directly linked Pakistan to the promotion of Khalistani extremism within Canada.
Lloyd’s assertion, which came during questioning by lead counsel Shantona Chaudhury, has sent shockwaves through both countries. She stated that Pakistan’s engagement in Canada is “consistently in balance with trying to reduce the influence of India” and that this influence is “directly related to support of Khalistani extremism.”
Lloyd further explained that Pakistan’s involvement in promoting Khalistani activism is a strategic maneuver to counter India’s influence. “And so, some of the elements that I mentioned previously about the dynamics between suppressing voices can also have the opposite effect in terms of amplifying other voices, and in this particular case, influence of Pakistan is directly related to support of Khalistani extremism,” she said.
This statement echoes India’s long-standing concerns about Khalistani extremists seeking refuge in Canada and has amplified criticism of the Trudeau government. A senior Indian government source remarked, “You don’t have to take our word. This is what your own security and intelligence tzarina has to say. She has no dog in this fight.”
The situation has raised serious questions about the Canadian government’s approach and its commitment to tackling foreign interference. The senior Indian government source questioned, “Why are they not outraged over this?” suggesting a perception that Trudeau’s administration may be pursuing agendas beyond the alleged transgressions of sovereignty that have fueled the current diplomatic rift.
Lloyd’s appointment as interim CSIS director, making her the first woman to lead the agency, came at a critical juncture. Her statement has further complicated the already strained relationship between Canada and India and adds a new layer of complexity to the ongoing debate about foreign interference in democratic societies.