Canada Urges India’s Cooperation in Nijjar Murder Investigation

Canada Urges India’s Cooperation in Nijjar Murder Investigation

In the wake of a diplomatic standoff surrounding the murder of Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has called upon the Indian government to assist in uncovering the truth behind the incident. Canadian intelligence has implicated India in the murder, straining bilateral relations.

Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the leader of the Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF), was fatally shot in June outside a gurdwara in Surrey, Canada. PM Trudeau, in a recent speech to the House of Commons, reiterated suspicions of Indian involvement in the killing.

The diplomatic discord escalated when both New Delhi and Ottawa expelled each other’s senior diplomats. India cited its “growing concern at the interference of Canadian diplomats in internal matters and their involvement in [anti-state] activities” as the reason behind this decision.

Speaking on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Trudeau stated, “We call upon the government of India to work with us to establish processes to uncover the truth of this matter and to allow for justice and accountability to be served.”

Trudeau did not provide specific evidence to substantiate his allegations that India played a role in the murder. He indicated that any evidence would be presented in court if the case went to trial.

Earlier in the week, Trudeau asserted that Indian agents were involved in the June murder of Nijjar, a Canadian citizen in the Vancouver area. India vehemently denied any involvement, describing the suggestion as “absurd.”

India also ceased handling visa applications in Canada, citing “security threats” that were reportedly disrupting the work of Indian officials and requested a reduction in Canadian diplomatic staff in India.

In response to queries about the restrained response from Canada’s allies, Trudeau clarified, “We are not looking to provoke or cause problems.” He emphasized the importance of maintaining strong ties with India, a nation of increasing significance, particularly in light of concerns regarding China.

Trudeau underscored Canada’s commitment to the rule of law and the safety of Canadians while requesting India’s assistance in ensuring justice in the Nijjar case. He disclosed having discussed his concerns directly with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

“We demand that the Indian government take this issue seriously and ensure that justice is served in this case,” Trudeau asserted, pledging to continue working to safeguard Canadians. He reiterated that Canada’s independent justice system and rigorous processes would follow their course and invited the government of India to engage in collaboration to uncover the truth behind the matter.