Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has stirred controversy by accusing the Indian government of involvement in the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a prominent Sikh separatist leader advocating for the creation of an independent Sikh state known as “Khalistan.” Nijjar was tragically shot dead in the parking lot of a gurudwara in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada, on June 18, 2023.
Trudeau’s startling accusation has ignited a diplomatic crisis between India and Canada. India has vehemently refuted these allegations, labeling them as “baseless” and “unfounded.” In response to the accusations, India has summoned the Canadian ambassador in protest.
The diplomatic turmoil has strained the relations between the two nations, leading to the expulsion of an Indian diplomat by Canada, reciprocated by India’s expulsion of a Canadian diplomat.
Expressing their concerns, the United States, Britain, and Australia have called for a resolution to the diplomatic standoff between India and Canada. US President Joe Biden has urged both countries to seek diplomatic solutions to bridge their differences.
Balraj Nijjar, the son of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, has expressed gratitude to Trudeau for bringing attention to his father’s murder. However, Canadian opposition leaders have criticized Trudeau for making accusations without providing substantial evidence to support his claims.
The ongoing diplomatic crisis between India and Canada is a matter of significant concern. It is crucial for both nations to engage in diplomatic dialogue to resolve their differences and prevent further deterioration of their relationship.
