Prime Minister Mark Carney is standing firm on his decision to invite Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the upcoming G7 summit, even as security officials continue investigating Modi’s government’s alleged links to the 2023 murder of Canadian activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Carney extended the invite during a phone call on Friday morning, which Modi promptly accepted. The summit, scheduled from June 15 to 17 in Kananaskis, Alberta, will include leaders from the world’s major economies, with India as a key guest.

Why Invite Modi Now?

Carney explained during a press conference on Parliament Hill that the G7 summit focuses on building partnerships with emerging and developing nations. He stressed India’s role as a global economic powerhouse and a critical player in international supply chains.

“Bilateral discussions on law enforcement cooperation are ongoing, reflecting progress on accountability,” Carney said. “It was in this context I extended the invitation, which Modi accepted.”

Modi echoed positive sentiments in a social media statement, highlighting the shared democratic values and close ties between India and Canada, though he did not mention law enforcement talks.

Strong Backlash from Sikh Groups

The invitation has sparked strong criticism, particularly from the World Sikh Organization of Canada. They had urged Carney not to invite Modi, citing the ongoing investigation into Nijjar’s murder—an event that remains highly sensitive.

Balpreet Singh, spokesperson for the organization, called the invitation a “betrayal of Canadian values,” especially as the summit coincides with the second anniversary of Nijjar’s assassination.

“This decision reverses the principled stance taken by former Prime Minister Trudeau,” Singh said, expressing shock and disappointment.

Background: The Nijjar Case and Diplomatic Fallout

Nijjar, a Sikh separatist activist in Canada, was fatally shot outside a Surrey gurdwara in June 2023. The Canadian government has linked Indian government agents to his killing, allegations India denies, accusing Canada of supporting “Khalistani terrorists.”

In response, Canada expelled six Indian diplomats in late 2024, prompting India to reciprocate by expelling Canadian diplomats. Arrests and criminal charges against Indian nationals connected to the case remain active.

In October 2024, RCMP revealed evidence tying Indian agents to criminal acts in Canada, including intimidation and extortion.

Carney Emphasizes Legal Process

When pressed on the controversy, Carney maintained that the legal investigation must proceed without political interference. “It’s never appropriate to comment on an ongoing legal process,” he stated.

He also stressed that the “rule of law is proceeding as it should” and reassured that inviting Modi does not disrupt justice efforts.

Political and Expert Reactions

Political leaders expressed mixed views. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre and former Prime Minister Stephen Harper emphasized the importance of maintaining strong Canada-India ties, citing trade and security.

Conversely, NDP critics Jenny Kwan and Heather McPherson condemned the invite, standing in solidarity with the Sikh community and calling for accountability and human rights protections.

Naresh Raghubeer, a Canada-India relations expert, underscored the need to separate policing matters from broader diplomatic ties, highlighting India’s importance as a democratic ally and economic partner.

What’s Next?

Despite repeated outreach from Sikh groups to the Prime Minister’s Office, no official response has been given. The World Sikh Organization says it does not plan to send further letters.

Other notable invitees to the G7 include Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who has yet to confirm attendance.

Carney’s decision signals a complex balancing act: upholding Canada’s commitment to justice while fostering strategic global relationships. As the G7 summit approaches, tensions remain high, and all eyes will be on how this diplomatic tightrope is managed.