The diplomatic situation, between India and Canada is rapidly intensifying as India has decided to expel a ranking diplomat following Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus allegations of Indian involvement in the assassination of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar back in June. The Canadian diplomat, who remains unnamed has been given a notice period of five days to leave the country. Here’s an extensive report on the growing tensions
Trudeaus Allegations; Recently Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made claims that his government had received ” allegations” connecting the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar to individuals associated with the Government of India. These accusations were promptly dismissed by India as “absurd and politically motivated.”
Diplomatic Expulsions: In response to these allegations India decided to expel a Canadian diplomat identified by Canadas foreign minister as the head of Indias Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) in Canada. This action was taken due to Indias concerns over alleged interference by diplomats in their affairs and their suspected involvement in activities, against Indian interests.
Escalation of Tensions: This recent development represents an escalation, in the tensions between the two nations. Before this Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised concerns with Justin Trudeau at the G20 summit in Delhi about activities related to secession and attacks carried out by Khalistan supporters on missions in Canada. As a result Canada decided to postpone a planned trade mission to India that was originally scheduled for October.
Concerns about Sovereignty: Trudeau discussed this matter during an emergency session in parliament stressing, “When any foreign government is involved in the killing of a citizen on soil it is an unacceptable violation of our sovereignty.” He emphasized that such actions go against the principles of open and democratic societies.
Response from the Indian Government: The Indian government firmly rejected the allegations made by Prime Minister Trudeau. Expressed concern over Canadian political figures openly showing sympathy towards “such groups.” The Indian government argued that these accusations were an attempt to divert attention from Khalistani terrorists and extremists who seek refuge in Canada posing a threat, to Indias sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Call for Action: Indias foreign ministry highlighted that Canada has had a standing history of providing space for illegal activities, including murder, human trafficking and organized crime.
Canada is being urged to take action, against all individuals and groups that are considered “anti India” and operating within its borders.
Hardeep Singh Nijjar: The person at the center of this controversy Hardeep Singh Nijjar was associated with both the Khalistani Tiger Force and the Canadian branch of Sikhs For Justice (SFJ). In June he was fatally shot by attackers near a gurdwara in Surrey. From Jalandhar in Punjab Nijjar had moved to Canada in 1997. He was wanted by authorities. Regarded as the mastermind behind the Khalistani Tiger Force, which is classified as a terrorist organization.
Investigations by NIA: July Indias National Investigation Agency (NIA) announced a reward of ₹10 lakh for information leading to Nijjars arrest in connection with the murder of a Hindu priest in Jalandhar, Punjab. He was also accused of involvement in a cinema bombing incident in Punjab back in 2007. The NIA is actively investigating attacks on diplomatic missions that occurred in Canada, the UK and the US.
Increasing Khalistani Activities in Canada: Over time Canada has become home to a growing number of Sikh expatriates providing an environment where extremist activities have been on the rise. In months there have been instances of Khalistani activities taking place within Canada such as protests, outside the Indian Embassy and incidents involving threatening posters targeting Indian diplomats.
With the tension the global community is closely observing the unfolding events, in this escalating conflict, between India and Canada.