[Answered] Discuss the influence of ethnic communities on a country’s foreign policy, with specific reference to Canada. How does this influence affect bilateral ties between India and Canada?

Recently, a pro-Khalistan parade in Canada raised concern in India which led to the Foreign Minister criticizing the parade and cautioning Canada about not meddling in the internal affairs of India and highlighting India’s priority to safeguard its territorial integrity. As per the 2021 Canadian census, Sikhs account for 2.1 per cent of Canada’s population and are the country’s fastest-growing religious group. After India, Canada is home to the largest population of Sikhs in the world.

Influence of ethnic community concerning Canada:

• The prosperous community: Due to their burgeoning population and presence as lawmakers and serving in government Sikh community is well represented in Canada. Eg, Jagmeet Singh became the leader of the left-leaning New Democratic Party (NDP).
• Geopolitics: Khalistan movement receives backing from China and & Pakistan and makes trouble for India as Punjab is a bordering state and has a history of insurgency movements.
• Cabinet members: Many ethnic Indians are members of the cabinet because of which Canadian politicians indulge in “vote bank politics” as seen during the farmer’s agitation movement which received wide support from Canadian politicians.
• Support to Pro-Khalistan groups: Ethnic Indians are also associated with terrorist groups like Babbar Khalsa International and the International Sikh Youth Federation who are associated with terrorism. These radical groups control the gurudwaras in Canada which control the narrative about India in Canada.
• Vaunted Multiculturalism: Canada’s excessive multiculturalism which boasts about its unique way is also responsible for insulating Sikhs from traditional liberal Canadian values and allowing anti-Indian sentiments to pass down along the generations.

How does this influence affect relations with India?

• Khalistan demand: Pro Khalistan organization Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) held a so-called “referendum” on Khalistan in Canada which led to a strain in the relations between both nations.
• Free Trade Agreement: Strain in relations due to support for Khalistan in Canada has adversely affected vital issues like Free Trade Agreement between both countries.
• Positive effects: Despite all this a strong vibrant, financially prosperous Indian community in Canada has led to meaningful cooperation in a wide range of areas including economy, energy, science and technology, space, information technology, and education.
• Diaspora politics: Leaders of countries like Canada, Australia, USA now are engaging in diaspora politics where they use PM Modi’s popularity to impress domestic public opinion.

Conclusion:

India should diplomatically coordinate with Canada and find ways to urge Canadian authorities to take action against those anti-Indian elements who are indulging in violent activities and influencing domestic opinions which is a concern for the security of India.