NEW DELHI, India: India refuted Canada’s allegations of its involvement in the killing of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia last year, despite the recent arrests of three Indian nationals in connection with the crime.
The External Affairs Ministry spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, stated that Canada had not presented any specific evidence implicating the Indian government in the incident, while reiterating India’s long-standing claim that Canada shelters Indian extremists.
The arrests of Kamalpreet Singh, Karan Brar, and Karanpreet Singh, residing temporarily in Canada, raised diplomatic tensions between the two nations. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s remarks last September, alleging India’s role in Nijjar’s killing, had already strained bilateral relations. However, Jaiswal emphasized that India and Canada were engaged in discussions regarding the case, yet Canada had not provided substantial evidence linking the suspects to the Indian government.
In response, India lodged complaints with Canadian authorities regarding the presence of separatists and extremists advocating violence against India in Canada.
Jaiswal highlighted pending extradition requests and challenges faced by Indian diplomats in Canada. Despite the arrests, the Indian nationals have not sought access to Indian diplomats.
Meanwhile, the three suspects appeared in court, facing charges of first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder. The case has further fueled diplomatic tension between Canada and India, with investigations ongoing to determine any connections to the Indian government.
The international community, including the UK and Australia, has expressed concern over the allegations, with both countries closely monitoring developments and engaging with India on the matter.
Trudeau emphasized the violation of Canadian sovereignty if a foreign government were involved in Nijjar’s killing, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
