Tensions between India and Canada have escalated as Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused the Indian government of playing a role in the killing of wanted Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. In response to Trudeau’s allegations, Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joy announced the expulsion of an Indian diplomat, further straining diplomatic relations between the two nations.
Trudeau’s Allegations and Concerns:
During a session in the Canadian Parliament, Prime Minister Trudeau asserted that his national security officials had reason to believe that “agents of the Indian government” were responsible for Nijjar’s killing. Nijjar was fatally shot outside a gurdwara in Canada’s Surrey on June 18. Trudeau emphasized that any involvement of a foreign government in the killing of a Canadian citizen on Canadian soil is a violation of sovereignty and democratic principles. He called upon India to cooperate with the investigation and expressed concern for the Indo-Canadian community.
Expulsion of Indian Diplomat:
In response to Trudeau’s announcement, Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joy expelled Pavan Kumar Rai, the head of India’s intelligence agency Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) in Canada. This move represents a significant deterioration in India-Canada relations.
Deterioration of India-Canada Relations:
The recent remarks by Trudeau and the expulsion of the Indian diplomat mark a low point in India-Canada relations. Last week, Canada cancelled a trade mission to India, and trade talks between the two countries have been put on hold. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed strong concerns to Trudeau over Canada’s handling of pro-Khalistani activities during the G20 Summit in New Delhi.
Investigation into Nijjar’s Death:
Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a pro-Khalistan leader wanted by the Indian government, was shot dead in Canada. He was associated with the banned organization Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) and played a key role in organizing the Khalistan referendum. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) stated that Nijjar was involved in recruiting, training, and financing pro-Khalistan terrorist modules. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) is currently investigating Nijjar’s death.
Pro-Khalistani Concerns:
Pro-Khalistani activities in Canada have been a concern for India, and New Delhi summoned the Canadian envoy in July to address the increasing activities by pro-Khalistani elements. India vehemently denied claims made by pro-Khalistani groups in Canada and called on Canadian authorities to take appropriate measures to ensure the safety of Indian diplomats and the Indian community.
Canada’s Sikh Population:
Canada is home to a significant Sikh population, comprising about 2% of its total population.
