Tensions have risen between Canada and India, following Canada’s accusation of possible Indian involvement in the killing of Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June. This led to the mutual expulsion of senior diplomats by both nations, which further soured their relations.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau mentioned an ongoing investigation into “credible allegations” about India’s potential role in the killing of Nijjar, a Canadian citizen. In response to these allegations, Canada expelled an Indian diplomat. Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly identified the diplomat as the head of India’s intelligence agency in Canada. India retaliated and asked a senior Canadian diplomat to leave the country, citing interference in its internal affairs.
Nijjar, a renowned Sikh leader in Canada, was fatally shot in his truck by two unidentified assailants outside a Sikh temple in Surrey, British Columbia. His killing has deeply affected Canada’s large Sikh community of more than 770,000.
In light of Trudeau’s accusations, prominent Sikh groups in Canada have called for the suspension of all intelligence and investigative cooperation with India. They claim that India’s involvement in Nijjar’s killing needs a serious response.
Hardeep Singh Nijjar was a vocal supporter of Khalistan, a proposed separate Sikh nation. This movement is considered a threat by the Indian government, with related groups labeled as “terrorist organizations”. Nijjar was also listed under India’s Unlawful Activities Prevention Act, with allegations of efforts to radicalize the global Sikh community.
India has dismissed Trudeau’s claims as “absurd and motivated”, emphasizing his dedication to democracy and the rule of law. They shifted attention to Khalistani terrorists harbored in Canada and criticized the Canadian government’s inaction on the issue.
The White House expressed deep concern, stressing the importance of a thorough Canadian investigation.
The allegations against India are expected to further strain relations, especially with existing tensions over activism by Canada’s Sikh diaspora. The countries’ trade deal is currently on hold, with friction existing between Trudeau and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
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