News Desk
NEW DEHLI: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi may not attend the upcoming G7 summit, marking the first time in six years that he has not received an official invitation. Canada, the host of this year’s gathering, has yet to formally invite Modi, according to Indian media reports.
Even if a last-minute invitation is issued, sources suggest Modi is unlikely to participate. Indian officials reportedly remain sceptical that Canada’s new government will take concrete steps to address longstanding concerns over the Khalistan separatist movement—an issue that continues to strain bilateral relations.
India has voiced frustration over Canada’s handling of Sikh separatist activity on its soil, which Delhi views as a threat to its national security. The situation has further deteriorated following public accusations and diplomatic clashes over alleged targeted killings linked to the movement.
The Sikh Federation of Toronto has publicly called on Canada to bar Modi from the summit unless India fully cooperates in ongoing criminal investigations into such killings. Indian analysts believe concerns over possible protests and the short timeframe for preparations may also factor into a final decision. So far, the Canadian government has not confirmed whether an invitation will be extended. A spokesperson for the summit declined to comment on Modi’s potential attendance.
The G7 summit, scheduled to take place in mid-June, will bring together leaders from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States and the European Commission. The latest developments underscore deepening diplomatic rifts between Ottawa and New Delhi, rooted in security concerns and contested diaspora politics.
