India Refutes Canadian Accusations of Involvement in Khalistani Extremist’s Assassination
India has vehemently denied allegations made by the Canadian government suggesting its involvement in the assassination of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey. The Indian administration dismissed the claims as absurd and driven by ulterior motives, reiterating its commitment to the rule of law.
In response to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s remarks, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) released a statement condemning the baseless accusations. The MEA emphasized that the Indian government categorically rejects any insinuation of its involvement in acts of violence in Canada. The ministry described the allegations as unfounded and politically motivated.
On Tuesday, Prime Minister Trudeau announced that Canadian security agencies were investigating a potential link between the Indian government and the shooting death of Nijjar, a Canadian citizen, outside a gurdwara in Surrey. Trudeau also claimed to have raised the issue with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the G20 Summit.
Contrary to Trudeau’s assertions, the Indian government reaffirmed that the Canadian Prime Minister had previously made similar allegations against India, only to have them outright rejected. The MEA statement underscored India’s unwavering commitment to democratic principles and the rule of law.
India further contended that the Canadian government’s unfounded allegations sought to divert attention from the presence of Khalistani terrorists and extremists who have found sanctuary in Canada, continuously posing a threat to India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Indian government also expressed longstanding concerns regarding Canada’s failure to effectively address Khalistani terrorism.
According to the statement, Canadian political elites expressing sympathy for these elements remain a cause for alarm. It highlighted that Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the Chief of Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF), had moved to Canada in the late 1990s, later being designated as a terrorist by India in 2020.
In response to Trudeau’s address, Canada has expelled one Indian diplomat, escalating tensions between the two nations.
The allegations and swift denial reflect the complex dynamics surrounding this sensitive issue, with India insisting on the importance of focusing on the menace posed by Khalistani terrorists and urging Canada to take decisive action against them.
This latest controversy adds to the existing strain in India-Canada relations concerning the extradition of Sikh separatist leaders. The situation calls for critical dialogue and cooperation between the two nations to address the lingering threat of Khalistani extremism while ensuring the preservation of diplomatic ties.
India’s resolute denial and condemnation of the allegations put forth by Canada signal its commitment to combatting terrorism and maintaining strong bilateral relationships based on mutual trust and respect.
