Trudeau’s Testimony and India’s Response
In a recent statement, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) firmly dismissed claims made by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau regarding the involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The MEA emphasized that Canada has failed to provide any evidence to support its serious allegations against India and its diplomats.
Lack of Evidence Cited
During his testimony before a Commission of Inquiry, Trudeau admitted that he had only intelligence information, lacking “hard evidentiary proof,” to substantiate his claims of Indian government agents being involved in Nijjar’s death. This admission aligns with India’s consistent stance that no concrete evidence has been presented by Canada.
Responsibility for Diplomatic Tensions
The MEA stated that the responsibility for the deteriorating relations between India and Canada rests solely with Prime Minister Trudeau. The spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, reiterated that Canada has not provided any proof to support its allegations, further straining diplomatic ties.
Claims of Espionage and Gang Links Rejected
Trudeau’s testimony suggested that Indian diplomats were allegedly gathering intelligence on Canadians opposed to the Modi government and sharing this information with criminal organizations. However, Indian sources have vehemently rejected these claims, stating that linking Indian agents to criminal gangs in Canada is unfounded and misleading.
Escalation of Diplomatic Row
This exchange of accusations has escalated tensions between India and Canada, leading to significant diplomatic actions. India recently expelled six Canadian diplomats and withdrew its high commissioner in response to Ottawa’s allegations. The ongoing feud is a notable downturn in the already strained relations between the two countries.
Focus on Pro-Khalistan Elements
India maintains that the core issue in its relations with Canada is the latter’s perceived tolerance towards pro-Khalistan elements operating freely on Canadian soil. Nijjar, identified as a terrorist by India, was shot dead outside a gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia, on June 18 of last year, which ignited this diplomatic crisis.
