A sharp escalation in tensions between Canada and India has unfolded after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India of involvement in the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a prominent Sikh leader in British Columbia. Nijjar, known for his advocacy of an independent Sikh homeland in India, was fatally shot outside his Surrey home on June 15.
The accusations have led to a diplomatic standoff, with both nations expelling each other’s diplomats.
Trudeau’s statement to the House of Commons on Monday revealed that Canadian national security authorities had obtained “credible” intelligence pointing to “agents of the government of India” being responsible for Nijjar’s murder. He described it as a “shocking and unacceptable act of state-sponsored terrorism” that violates Canada’s sovereignty and security.
“We condemn this heinous crime in the strongest possible terms and demand that India cooperate fully with our investigation and bring those responsible to justice,” Trudeau declared at a press conference in Ottawa.
Canada swiftly summoned India’s ambassador and filed a formal protest regarding the incident. Trudeau also hinted at reviewing diplomatic and trade relations with India and considering sanctions and other measures to hold the country accountable.
Canada is not trying to provoke India by suggesting it was linked to the murder of a Sikh separatist leader, but wants New Delhi to address the issue properly, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Tuesday, reported the Reuters news agency.
Hardeep Singh Nijjar, 45, led the World Sikh Organization of Canada, which advocates for Sikh rights globally. He was a vocal supporter of the Khalistan movement, aiming to establish an independent Sikh state in India’s Punjab region. India has long accused Nijjar and other Sikh activists in Canada of engaging in terrorist activities and supporting violent separatism. In 2018, India’s Ministry of Home Affairs labeled Nijjar as one of the most wanted terrorists, accusing him of plotting attacks on Indian targets.
However, Nijjar’s family and friends vehemently denied these allegations, portraying him as a peaceful and law-abiding citizen who exercised his right to free speech. They accused India of orchestrating a smear campaign against Nijjar and other Sikh activists in Canada.
The murder of Nijjar has ignited anger and sorrow within Canada’s Sikh community, which numbers around half a million people. Many Sikhs have expressed solidarity with Nijjar’s family and are demanding justice for his death.
Trudeau expressed a desire to resolve differences with India through dialogue and cooperation while cautioning against any foreign interference or violence on Canadian soil. He stressed Canada’s commitment to its values, interests, sovereignty, and security.
“Canada is a proud and diverse country that welcomes people from all backgrounds and faiths,” Trudeau affirmed. “We will always stand up for our values and interests, and we will always defend our sovereignty and security. We expect the same respect from our partners and allies, including India.”
As tensions continue to escalate, the international community watches closely, hoping for a peaceful resolution to this diplomatic crisis.
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