- Canada investigates Sikh leader’s murder.
- Allegations point to Indian involvement.
- Diplomatic tensions with India rise.
Canada’s government has conducted a lengthy investigation into the murder of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, alleging Indian government involvement. This has led to diplomatic tensions between the two countries.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recently stated that Ottawa was actively pursuing credible allegations linking Indian government agents to Nijjar’s murder outside a Sikh temple in British Columbia in June.
In response, India has denied any involvement and called on Canada to cooperate with the investigation. Diplomatic expulsions and travel advisories have ensued.
The investigation has uncovered intelligence, including communications involving Indian diplomats in Canada, and was shared with Canada by an unnamed ally in the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing network.
Canadian Security Intelligence Service alerted the dead Sikh leader of his vulnerability.
Canadian officials have sought India’s cooperation in the investigation, with National Security and Intelligence Adviser Jody Thomas visiting India in August and September.
Trudeau stressed the gravity of the claims and said revealing them in the Commons was significant.
The United States, seeking to strengthen its relationship with India, expressed concern over the incident. And stressed that there would be no special exemptions based on the country affected.
The US National Security Adviser, Jake Sullivan, noted that the US would stand up for its principles and consult closely with Canada in its law enforcement and diplomatic process.
Australia expressed deep concern over Canada’s accusations, while Britain maintained close contact with its Canadian partners regarding the serious allegations.
Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar said the rising trend of Hindutva or Hindu nationalism worries the world community.
The Foreign Office highlighted that the Canadian accusation demonstrates New Delhi’s global network of extra-territorial killings. With Foreign Secretary Syrus Qazi expressing no surprise at the Canadian allegations.
