The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over the investigation into a series of attacks against Indian High Commission (IHC) in Canada and the United States by Khalistani groups, according to a statement released on Tuesday. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) requested the NIA to lead the probe, following which the agency took over from the Special Cell of Delhi Police. The MHA felt that the NIA was better suited to investigate cases involving transnational threats and terrorism.
Earlier, the Special Cell of Delhi Police had filed two FIRs under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) concerning the assaults in Canada and San Francisco in March 2023. The handover to the NIA comes in the wake of incidents of pro-Khalistan demonstrators in the US issuing threats against the Indian Embassy and the Indian Ambassador to the US, Tranjit Singh Sandhu, during their protests. A protester at a recent rally delivered a speech, including a direct threat towards Sandhu.
In March, Khalistan supporters had organised a protest outside the Indian Embassy in Canada, raising pro-Khalistan slogans, and reportedly engaging in acts of aggression towards Indian-origin journalists present at the scene. The transfer of the investigation to the NIA is expected to bring a fresh perspective, and the agency says it is committed to delivering justice and bringing the perpetrators to book.
The NIA official said on condition of anonymity that they were taking all necessary measures to investigate the case thoroughly, and that its team of investigators is already on the ground. The NIA has a strong record of conducting investigations in terrorism cases, and this handover is expected to add significantly to their portfolio in tackling cross-border threats.
The recent developments reflect an increasing focus on tackling and curbing threats from the Khalistani elements that openly seek to destabilize India’s unity and security. The Indian Government is believed to be stepping up its efforts in countering Khalistani activities and promoting better outreach in countries with a significant presence of the Indian diaspora.
