NEW DELHI: India has strongly dismissed Canada’s accusations linking Indian diplomats to the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Sikh separatist leader, calling them “preposterous.” The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) argued that these claims are driven by a “political agenda,” suggesting that Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government is using the issue for domestic political gain. This diplomatic dispute has deepened since Canada accused Indian government agents of being involved in Nijjar’s killing in June 2023 in Surrey, British Columbia.
The allegations arise from investigations suggesting that Indian diplomats were tied to violent activities in Canada, particularly related to the Sikh separatist movement. Canadian authorities, including Trudeau, have stated they have credible evidence connecting Indian officials to Nijjar’s assassination. In response, India expelled six Canadian diplomats, mirroring Canada’s expulsion of Indian consular staff, escalating tensions between the two nations.
The dispute has led to a broader diplomatic fallout, with both countries engaging in tit-for-tat expulsions of diplomats. Despite the rising tension, India has reiterated that the allegations are false and part of a strategy to influence Canadian domestic politics. This marks a continuing strain in India-Canada relations, with both sides reacting strongly to the allegations.
As the situation develops, both countries are facing increasing pressure to address the diplomatic crisis. India’s rejection of the claims has only heightened the controversy, with further diplomatic actions likely to follow as both governments continue to navigate the dispute.
