Ujjal Dosanjh on Trudeau’s Resignation and the Future of Canada-India Relations

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s recent announcement of his resignation as leader of the ruling Liberal Party has sparked global discussion. However, according to Ujjal Dosanjh, a former Canadian minister of Indian origin, Trudeau’s departure is unlikely to significantly alter Ottawa’s strained ties with India. Speaking exclusively with Business Standard, Dosanjh provided insights into the potential political dynamics shaping Canada-India relations in the near future.

Ujjal Dosanjh: A Leadership Change Amidst Strained Relations

Trudeau’s resignation, announced on Monday, came after years of deteriorating Canada-India relations, particularly following the controversial murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The Canadian Prime Minister alleged a “potential link” between the Indian government and Nijjar’s assassination—an accusation vehemently denied by India. This diplomatic fallout underscored a deepening rift between the two nations.

Dosanjh, a prominent voice among moderate Sikhs in Canada, believes Trudeau’s replacement in the Liberal Party will have limited scope to address the bilateral issue before the next elections, expected in June-July 2025. “The new Liberal leader will likely focus on election preparedness rather than addressing the India issue,” Ujjal Dosanjh noted.

A Conservative Shift on the Horizon?

Current opinion polls suggest a significant lead for the Conservative Party over the Liberals. An Ipsos poll indicates a 19-point lead for the Conservatives, with similar trends reported by Abacus Data. If the Conservatives secure a victory, Dosanjh predicts a recalibration in Canada-India relations.

“My sense is that the Conservatives, if they come to power, may approach India with a fresh perspective. Setting aside the Nijjar issue and prioritizing trade and diplomacy would be the prudent move,” he said. Dosanjh further highlighted the critical role of bilateral trade in Canada’s economic landscape, particularly the import of pulses and potash from India, which has been adversely affected by strained ties.

While Khalistani sympathizers exist within Conservative ranks, Ujjal Dosanjh suggested they might find less support compared to the Trudeau administration. “The Conservatives may have learned from Trudeau’s experience of ignoring extremist elements,” he added.

Canada’s Immigration Policy Under Scrutiny

Immigration policies remain a contentious issue in Canadian politics. Trudeau faced backlash over his ambitious immigration targets, which critics argue exacerbated housing shortages and strained social services. In November 2024, Trudeau announced reduced immigration targets to address public discontent.

Ujjal Dosanjh warned that a Conservative government might adopt a stricter stance on immigration, reflecting growing public frustration. “There’s resentment among Canadians about how increased immigration has impacted housing and affordability,” he explained.

Navigating US Relations Amid Trump’s Tariffs

As Trudeau prepares to step down, Canada’s relationship with the US under President-elect Donald Trump is also under the spotlight. Trump’s administration has already imposed heavy tariffs on Canada and criticized its immigration policies.

“Canada has long relied on the US in international relations,” said Dosanjh. “Trudeau’s resignation might not significantly impact US-Canada ties, but Trump’s administration could view the new Liberal leadership as weaker.”

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