Indian announcement of recalling its ambassador from Canada after seeing a gathering of Sikh Parliamentarians from the Federal Party and other senior leaders also making an appearance in Toronto accelerating the old disagreements between the two nations, on the issue of Sikh separatists. Nevertheless, the event was just a reminder that India is engaged in secret activities beyond its geographical boundaries. Indian controversies on this subject range from state-sponsored killings and espionage to extra-democratic practices that force concerns not only about the larger picture of democracy, sovereignty and international norms but also raise questions about their ethical scope.

The Toronto Sikh Rally

The Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and other politicians’ attendance at the Khalsa Day demonstration in Toronto, where few also campaigned for Khalistan, provoked a strong response from India. The episode symbolises India and Canada’s strained relationship over the Sikh separatist movement, as well as the wider issue of sovereignty and diplomatic tensions. India’s formal summoning of Canada’s Deputy High Commissioner and its condemnation of the event underscores the depth of disagreement that exists between the two nations.

The Guardian’s Exposé

The Guardian’s investigative research sheds light on India’s suspected role in extrajudicial killings and other sinister activities overseas. Testimonies from intelligence officers and supporting material connect India’s Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW) to a spread of covert operations spanning many nations. From failed murder attempts to carefully orchestrated espionage operations, India’s actions have caused major alarm among its Western friends.

It also reveals the complicated machination of covert operations by R&AW lasting directly under the supervision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, interestingly targeted assassinations have been conducted of those, who are regarded as foes of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and PM Modi’s vision. Among the dead, are mostly Sikhs, who have actively campaigned against the Government of India and others.

Furthermore, the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) revealed that a fourth individual Amandeep Singh, 22, has been charged with first-degree murder and conspiracy to murder in Nijjar’s killing. Singh, an Indian native who lived in Brampton, Surrey, and Abbotsford, was already in detention on separate gun charges in Peel, Ontario. Canadian police detained and accused three Indian men in Edmonton, Alberta, earlier this month, saying they were looking into their links to the Indian government.

India’s Covert Tactics:

The claims against India are creating a worrying situation in which disrespect for international standards and sovereignty is increasing. R&AW’s involvement in targeted killings and espionage activities as well as its undermining of democratic standards and citizens’ safety abroad disrespect these basic international norms. To that extent, India’s competitive approach towards its position in the world resembles a more noticeable pattern of geopolitical changes, which may have a bearing on peace and democratic governance.

The fact that India’s malicious activities take place outside the country’s territories, raises a question about how nations on the international stage behave. The employment of criminal syndicates and individual sleeper cells for armed operations in addition to undercover roles, falls on the same page as the methods used by totalitarian regimes. Those functions are not only eroding democratic and legal principles but also jeopardizing the security and well-being of the expatriates themselves.

International Response:

While some Western nations have responded forcefully to India’s activities, others have exercised diplomatic patience. Pakistan also exposed India, Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary in January 2024, and top bureaucrats of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), put before the world the evidence of Indian intelligence of the secret killing of its citizens, Muhammad Riaz and Shahid Latif.

The expulsion of R&AW’s station head by Canada, as well as the US dispute with India over failed assassination plans, indicate a determination to hold India accountable. However, concerns remain about the broader implications of India’s covert activities along with the need for a coordinated international response.

The international response to India’s covert efforts has been mixed, with some nations choosing diplomatic steps and others taking more severe actions. Canada’s removal of R&AW’s station head in reaction to suspicions of Indian participation in the death of Sikh activists demonstrates a strong opposition to extrajudicial activities. Similarly, the United States’ resolve to challenge India over failed murder plots, illustrates its dedication to democratic norms and human rights.

The Growing Influence of Hindutva Ideology

India’s overseas covert actions indicate a larger threat to democracy too. The rising impact of Hindutva ideology, along with the Modi Government’s use of disinformation and cohesive force, raises concerns about the survival of Indian democracy. If left unchecked, India’s foreign policies might have far-reaching ramifications for global stability and democratic Governments.

The emergence of Hindutva ideology in India has resulted in growing polarisation and marginalisation of its minority groups. The Modi Government’s use of disinformation and intimidation to gain power has weakened democratic values besides delaying faith in democratic institutions. The rising impact of Hindutva ideology threatens the objectivity of liberal voting while raising questions about India’s democratic future.

Demand for Accountability:

Given such developments, the international community must demand responsibility and openness from India. As claims and proof of India’s participation in extrajudicial murders overseas emerge, the world must unite to condemn such crimes and hold those guilty accountable.

As the world grapples with the disclosures of India’s covert activities, it is critical to protect democracy, human rights, and sovereignty. The demand for international collaboration and solidarity has never been higher. Only by working together can the world address the problems posed by India’s rising assertiveness while preserving democratic and human rights norms for future generations.