India, Oct. 21 -- Two of the world's leading democracies, India and Canada, are currently engaged in a rather unseemly, explosive diplomatic row over Ottawa's refusal to rein in Khalistani elements thriving on Canadian soil. New Delhi believes these elements, all Canadian nationals, have been allowed unfettered freedom, imperilling India's security interests. With Ottawa paying no heed to New Delhi's concerns, a traditionally close relationship nurtured over a long period now lies torn into shreds.

The spat with Canada could also impinge on India's geopolitical equations with members of the powerful intelligence-sharing 'Fives Eyes' alliance. The Justin Trudeau-led government has approached the alliance and got the backing of the other f...