After Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India of orchestrating the assassination of a Canadian citizen, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, new revelations suggest evidence might support his claim.
Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), a prominent Canadian news outlet, disclosed intelligence that involves direct communications with Indian officials. This information was not solely derived from Canadian resources but was also shared by a confidential partner within the Five Eyes intelligence consortium.
Hardeep Singh Nijjar, leader of the Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF), was fatally shot outside a gurdwara in Surrey, Canada, last June.
Following this, relations between New Delhi and Ottawa deteriorated. Both nations evicted each other’s senior diplomats, with India expressing concerns over alleged interference by Canadian diplomats in its internal affairs.
Trudeau’s UNGA Statement
While attending the United Nations General Assembly in New York, PM Justin Trudeau urged India to cooperate, stating, “We call upon the government of India to work collaboratively to reveal the truth and ensure justice prevails.” This came after both Prime Ministers reportedly touched on the subject during the G20 summit in India.
Unofficially, when probed about the central allegation of India’s involvement in the assassination, no Indian representative refuted it. PM Trudeau emphasized the gravity of his decision to share these concerns, stressing that the allegations were not made recklessly.
The Canadian leader, however, has not publicly disclosed the evidence behind these claims, hinting that such details might emerge during judicial proceedings should it proceed to that stage.
India’s Response and Broader Implications
India vehemently denies any involvement, terming the allegations as “baseless”. In a notable move, India also ceased visa operations in Canada, referencing “security threats” as the reason, and called for a downsizing of Canadian diplomatic staff within its borders.
However, Trudeau maintained that Canada was not seeking conflict, though he noticed a reserved response from international allies. The West, primarily the U.S., has strengthened ties with India, especially given rising concerns about China.
Trudeau acknowledged India’s growing global significance: “India is undeniably a pivotal nation. However, our commitment to the rule of law and safeguarding Canadians remains unwavering.”
Trudeau’s core message was clear – he seeks collaboration with India to ensure Canadian citizens’ safety. He mentioned a candid conversation with PM Modi about his concerns and emphasized Canada’s independent justice system, hoping for India’s cooperation in discerning the truth.
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