Justin Trudeau resigns as Canada PM: What his departure means for India

Justin Trudeau announced his resignation as Prime Minister of Canada and leader of the Liberal Party on Monday. He will leave office as soon as the party chooses a new leader. Trudeau’s decision marks the end of an era in Canadian politics. While the exact timeline for his departure from office remains unclear, Trudeau is expected to remain as Prime Minister until a new leader is selected, though the transition could happen swiftly

Trudeau’s resignation comes at a moment of heightened tension between Canada and India, a relationship that has been under strain following his allegations regarding the killing of Khalistani activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil.

Trudeau accused the Indian government of orchestrating the killing, a claim that

New Delhi has consistently denied. With no substantial evidence presented by Trudeau’s team, the accusation left a cloud of distrust hanging over bilateral ties. Now, as Trudeau steps down, the future of Canada-India relations hangs in the balance.

The impact on policy and diplomacy

Trudeau’s departure could signal a shift in Canada’s foreign policy, particularly with regard to India. The question on many minds is whether the Liberal Party will elect a new leader who continues Trudeau’s critical stance or whether a new government will seek a fresh diplomatic approach.

If the Liberals manage to retain power, the next leader will likely face the challenge of maintaining a delicate balance between economic interests and political tensions with India. The focus may remain on the contentious issues surrounding the killing of Nijjar and the strained diplomatic ties that followed.