India Demands Evidence from Canada in Pro-Khalistan Leader’s Killing
India has accused Canada of tainting the investigation into the killing of pro-Khalistan leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, as the two nations’ relations continue to deteriorate. The Indian High Commissioner to Canada, Sanjay Kumar Verma, has demanded evidence from Canada regarding its allegations of India’s involvement in Nijjar’s killing.
The tensions between India and Canada began when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India of being involved in Nijjar’s killing during a statement in parliament in September. Trudeau claimed that his government shared details of the allegations with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to India, requesting cooperation in the investigation. However, Verma stated that India has not been provided with any concrete evidence from Canada or its allies to support the accusations.
Verma raised concerns over the legality of wiretapping conversations between diplomats, as the Canadian Security Intelligence Service reportedly picked up Indian diplomatic communications, and an unnamed member of Five Eyes allegedly provided these conversations as evidence. He stressed that conversations between diplomats are protected under international law and cannot be used as evidence in court or publicly released.
The Indian High Commissioner also highlighted that India has been awaiting action from Canada on 26 extradition requests made over the past five or six years. Verma expressed his concerns about his own safety, as well as the safety of two Indian Consuls General in Toronto and Ottawa, following threats and posters issued by pro-Khalistani groups. He condemned these actions as hate speech and incitement to violence.
While Verma emphasized that the current stand-off should not hinder business ties between the two nations, he urged Canada to address the issue of Khalistan supporters. He urged the Canadian government not to allow its soil to be used by individuals who seek to dismember India and challenge its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
As the India-Canada relations continue to strain, it remains to be seen how the two countries will navigate this sensitive issue and work towards reconciliation.
Overall, India’s demand for evidence from Canada in the pro-Khalistan leader’s killing highlights the growing tensions between the two nations. The lack of concrete evidence provided by Canada has raised questions about the validity of their allegations, with India highlighting the illegality of wiretapping conversations between diplomats. With concerns over safety and security, it is essential for both countries to address these issues and find a way forward in order to maintain business ties and strengthen diplomatic relations.
