Canada and Western Hypocrisy: A Tale of Double Standards

As the world is increasingly becoming more connected, it is essential to view international events through a lens of objectivity and fairness. The recent allegations by Canada against India over the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a known Khalistani extremist, have raised eyebrows among many who are aware of Western hypocrisy when it comes to terrorism and a rule-based world order.

Canada's Audacity and Hypocrisy

Firstly, it is vital to address the elephant in the room - Canada's role in providing sanctuary to numerous terrorists, extremists, and organised criminals from India. Over the years, Canada has gained a notorious reputation as a hub for such individuals. Despite this, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government has shown no serious intent to tackle this menace. The Khalistan movement, which demands a separate Sikh state, finds not just passive support but active promoters within Canadian borders.

For a country that prides itself on being a torchbearer of democracy, human rights, and freedom of speech, it's quite ironic and hypocritical for Canada to shelter those who intend to disrupt the peace and stability of another democratic nation. Yet, Mr. Trudeau, with his recent allegations, exhibits audacity by preaching about a rule-based world order.

It is this duplicity that makes many dismiss Justin Trudeau's words with scepticism. On one hand, Canada speaks of freedom of speech, but on the other, it actively provides a platform to voices that promote violence and secessionism.

The American Paradigm of Double Standards

The United States, a close ally of Canada, is not untouched by this cloud of hypocrisy either. America's infamous 'War on Terror' is replete with examples where it flouted international norms and the sovereignty of nations in the name of national security.

While the US has justified its actions in Afghanistan and Pakistan as necessary to counter-terrorism, it's hard to overlook the double standards applied when it's their strategic ally being accused. The invasion of Iraq on the grounds of non-existent weapons of mass destruction, with the subsequent chaos and loss of life, stands as a testament to the US's selective approach to a rule-based world order.

India's Judicious Approach and the Need for Assertiveness

The 2008 Mumbai attacks, which shook the world, presented a stark contrast in how India handles terrorism. Ajmal Kasab, a Pakistani terrorist caught alive during the attacks, was broadcast live in action on TV. Despite his heinous crimes and his lack of remorse, India took the high road by providing him with legal assistance, ensuring due process, and only executing him after exhausting all legal avenues and obtaining the order of the Supreme Court. This incident underscores India's commitment to the rule of law, even in the face of grave provocations.

However, with the rise in cross-border terrorism and the lack of cooperation from several countries in extraditing wanted criminals, India may need to adopt a more assertive stance. It's high time India declared to the world that any individual, including its citizens, found to be involved in terrorism, organised crime, or financial fraud and seeking refuge in a third country, should be handed over to India upon submission of relevant evidence. If countries refuse to cooperate, India must reserve the right to bring such individuals to justice, by any means necessary. This approach is not just about retribution but also ensuring that India's commitment to the rule of law isn't exploited by other nations.

Conclusion

The West, particularly Canada and the US, needs introspection. The selective application of principles based on convenience undermines their credibility on the world stage. A genuine commitment to a rule-based world order and combating terrorism demands consistency, fairness, and eschewing double standards. For nations like India, which have borne the brunt of terrorism for decades, these events aren't mere diplomatic spats but reminders of the uphill battle they face in ensuring their voices aren't drowned out by Western hypocrisy.