The Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s allegations of India’s involvement in the assassination of a Sikh separatist leader in Canada have put U.S. President Joe Biden in a diplomatic dilemma. The claims could potentially hamper Biden’s efforts to strengthen relations with India as a strategic counterweight to China, particularly after a successful G20 summit in New Delhi.

As a result of Trudeau’s unsubstantiated claims, both Canada and India have expelled a diplomat from each other’s country. The White House has expressed concern about the situation and called on India to cooperate with the Canadian investigation.

The diplomatic dispute threatens various aspects of the India-Canada relationship, including their $11 billion trade relationship and military communication. This situation could also create complications for Biden in his efforts to promote unity among partner nations.

The issue of Sikh separatism has been a longstanding complication in Canada-India relations. The Sikh population in Canada, the largest outside of Punjab, has become a significant political demographic. Meanwhile, Modi’s party has promoted policies that appeal to voters who view India as a Hindu nation.

This situation highlights the challenges the U.S. and its allies face in balancing diplomatic relations, human rights concerns, and strategic geopolitical interests. The Indian government perceives Trudeau as politically indebted to the Sikh community and anticipates relations with Canada to deteriorate. However, an Indian official stated that the India-U.S. security cooperation remains solid and is unlikely to be affected by Canada’s allegations.