Toronto: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has accused the Indian government of instigating violence within Canada, further intensifying tensions over claims that New Delhi has been targeting Sikh separatists based in the country.
During an inquiry on foreign interference, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India of violating Canada’s sovereignty by targeting Sikh dissidents, citing “ever clearer indications” of such actions. Trudeau condemned India’s moves as a “horrific mistake.”
Trudeau’s remarks followed the expulsion of top diplomats from both countries, a result of tensions sparked by the assassination of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Vancouver in June 2023.
Later in the year, Trudeau claimed Canada had credible evidence linking Indian agents to Nijjar’s murder. Four Indian nationals have been arrested in connection, though New Delhi continues to deny any involvement.
In response to Trudeau’s remarks, a spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs stated that Canada has provided no evidence to support its serious allegations against India and that the responsibility for the damage to India-Canada relations lies solely with Prime Minister Trudeau.
Our response to media queries regarding PM of Canada's deposition at the Commission of Inquiry: https://t.co/JI4qE3YK39 pic.twitter.com/1W8mel5DJe
— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) October 16, 2024
India temporarily halted visa issuance in Canada, and on Monday, Canada expelled six senior diplomats, including High Commissioner Sanjay Verma. In response, India ordered the expulsion of six top Canadian diplomats, including the acting high commissioner.
US accusations
India’s government has been accused by the United States of orchestrating an assassination attempt on a Sikh separatist on American soil. In November 2023, the U.S. Department of Justice charged Indian national Nikhil Gupta in connection with an alleged plot to target Sikh American activist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.
The charges suggest that the plot was coordinated with an Indian government employee and other individuals. A spokesperson for the U.S. State Department indicated that a recent meeting between U.S. and Indian officials regarding the investigation into this foiled assassination plot was productive, signaling potential cooperation despite rising tensions.
These actions have further deepened the diplomatic rift between the two nations, with no clear resolution in sight.
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