New Delhi/Ottawa: India’s High Commissioner to Canada, Dinesh K Patnaik, has sharply criticized the Canadian government for its alleged double standards in handling terrorism-related allegations, stating that Canada expects India to accept accusations without evidence while demanding proof for Indian claims. The comments, made during a TV interview on Canadian channel CBS, come as both countries work to rebuild diplomatic relations after a period of tension following the assassination of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada.
“Where is the Evidence?” – Patnaik’s Blunt Response to Canada
Mr Patnaik, a seasoned 1990-batch Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer, directly challenged Canada’s previous position regarding allegations that Indian agents were involved in Nijjar’s killing in Surrey, British Columbia.
He stated, “When India provides Canada with evidence that people residing there are wanted for terrorist activities, the Canadian government does not accept it. But when you make allegations against India, you expect us to accept them as truth without any proof. Is this fair?”
He further emphasized the fundamental principle of law: a person is presumed innocent until proven guilty. IFS Patnaik criticized the previous Canadian administration for demanding evidence from India while expecting India to accept Canada’s claims unconditionally.
Criticism of Canadian Inaction on Terrorism
Mr Patnaik also pointed out that Canadian authorities have failed to take adequate action against terrorist elements operating on their soil for decades, creating an environment conducive to extremism targeting India.
“Some elements in Canada glorify murderers and engage in hate crimes. Whatever negative thing you can think of, they are doing it. When we inform the Canadian government about these individuals, they often say there isn’t enough evidence,” he said.
The ambassador reiterated that India never engages in illegal activities abroad and is willing to act if credible evidence is presented against Indian citizens.
Diplomatic Thaw: New Appointments Signal Reset
After nearly a year of suspended high-level representation, India and Canada have begun restoring diplomatic ties.
- IFS Patnaik was appointed India’s High Commissioner to Canada in August 2025, taking over from the diplomatic vacuum left by Sanjay Verma in October 2024. Patnaik, who was serving as India’s Ambassador to Spain, will now head the Indian mission in Ottawa.
- Canada has appointed Christopher Cooter as its new High Commissioner to India, replacing Cameron MacKay. Cooter brings 35 years of diplomatic experience, including previous postings in South Africa, Israel, and India.
These appointments follow high-level talks in New Delhi and a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney at the G7 Summit in June 2025.
Who is Dinesh K Patnaik?
Mr Patnaik, born 3 January 1967, is a highly experienced Indian diplomat with over 30 years of service in the Indian Foreign Service. His career highlights include –
- Ambassador to Cambodia (2012–2015), Morocco (2015–2016), and Spain (2021–2025).
- Deputy High Commissioner to the United Kingdom (2016–2018).
- Leadership roles in the Ministry of External Affairs, including the Indian Ocean Region, Overseas Indian Affairs, and Consular divisions.
- Director General of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR).
Education:
- Master of Science in Physics – Delhi University
- MBA – IIM Calcutta
- Master’s in Advanced Studies – University of Vienna
Personal Life: Patnaik is married to Poonam Patnaik and has two daughters.
Signs of Reconciliation Amid Lingering Concerns
While both nations have taken steps to normalize relations, security concerns remain –
- India remains cautious about Khalistani extremist groups operating from Canada.
- Canada is concerned about Indian criminal networks and plans to increase diplomatic staffing in India.
Nonetheless, officials from both countries have expressed cautious optimism, emphasizing the importance of restoring trade, citizen services, and diplomatic engagement.
“These appointments mark a significant step toward rebuilding trust and ensuring stable relations,” noted Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand.
