Canada is probing ‘credible allegations’ of Indian government involvement in a murder on its territory.
Allegations of Indian Involvement in Sikh Leader’s Killing Increase Tensions with Canada
Canada has accused India of being connected to the assassination of a prominent Sikh leader, leading to heightened tensions between the two countries.
According to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, his government has received “credible allegations” linking the Indian government to the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen and Sikh leader. Nijjar was shot outside a Sikh temple in British Columbia, Canada, by two masked gunmen.
Trudeau stated that Canadian security agencies have been actively investigating the potential link between Indian government agents and the murder. He emphasized that his government will hold the perpetrators accountable and called on India to cooperate in uncovering the truth.
While no arrests have been made in connection with the killing, three suspects are currently under investigation.
In response to the allegations, India expelled Canada’s station chief for the external Indian intelligence service, and Canada retaliated by expelling an Indian diplomat. Both countries have denied the accusations and engaged in a diplomatic dispute.
The Indian government labeled Nijjar a terrorist in 2020, accusing him of supporting attacks in Punjab. The Khalistan separatist movement, which aims to establish a sovereign state in the Punjab region, has been linked to Nijjar.
The issue of Khalistan and the alleged assassination was discussed during the G20 Summit between Trudeau and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It is also expected to be a topic of conversation at the United Nations General Assembly meeting in New York.
The United States has expressed deep concern about India’s potential involvement in the assassination and emphasized the importance of a thorough investigation.
Trudeau clarified that Canada seeks to uncover the truth and hold those responsible accountable, without seeking to provoke or escalate the situation.
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What steps can both Canada and India take to address the underlying issues that have strained their relationship, including trade, human rights, and Sikh extremism
H leader. Nijjar was shot and killed in India in 2020.
The allegations have further strained the already delicate relationship between Canada and India. This recent development comes after years of strained ties, particularly since Trudeau took office in 2015. The two nations have had disagreements over issues including trade, human rights, and Sikh extremism.
The Indian government has vehemently denied any involvement in Nijjar’s killing. External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi stated that the allegations were “baseless and unacceptable.” The Indian government has called on Canada to provide evidence to support its claims.
Meanwhile, several Sikh organizations in Canada have demanded a thorough investigation into Nijjar’s death and the alleged Indian connection. They argue that the Canadian government must take these allegations seriously and hold India accountable if proven true.
The issue of Sikh separatism has long been a sensitive subject in the bilateral relationship between Canada and India. Canada has a significant Sikh population, and many Sikhs have sought asylum in the country due to their involvement in the movement for an independent Sikh state, known as Khalistan. India considers this movement as a threat to its national security.
Trudeau’s government has been accused of being sympathetic towards Sikh separatism, a charge he vehemently denies. However, his administration has faced criticism for its handling of Sikh-related issues, including inviting convicted Sikh extremist Jaspal Atwal to official events during Trudeau’s visit to India in 2018.
The Indian government’s denial and the Canadian Sikh community’s demand for an investigation have further increased tensions between the two nations. The issue threatens to overshadow other areas of cooperation, including trade and investment.
Both countries need to find a way to address these allegations and rebuild trust. It is important for Canada to present any evidence it may have to support its claims and for India to cooperate fully in any investigation. Transparency and accountability are crucial in resolving such sensitive matters.
Additionally, the two governments should engage in meaningful dialogue to address the underlying issues that have strained their relationship. By addressing concerns related to trade, human rights, and Sikh extremism through open and honest discussions, both nations can work towards a more positive and productive relationship.
The allegations of Indian involvement in the killing of Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar have brought the already troubled relationship between Canada and India to a new low. Both countries must work together to address these allegations and find common ground to rebuild trust and cooperation.
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