India Rejects Canada’s Allegations Linking High Commissioner to Nijjar Investigation
On October 14, India firmly dismissed Canada’s claims regarding the Indian High Commissioner’s alleged connection to the investigation into the killing of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) described these allegations as “preposterous imputations” and attributed them to the political agenda of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government, which it characterized as motivated by vote bank politics.
The MEA’s statement followed a diplomatic communication from Canada suggesting that the Indian High Commissioner and other diplomats were “persons of interest” in the ongoing investigation. India has reserved the right to respond to what it views as efforts to fabricate allegations against its diplomats.
The MEA pointed out that since Trudeau’s initial allegations in September 2023, the Canadian government has failed to provide any evidence despite multiple requests from India. It asserted that this latest development is part of a broader strategy to smear India politically while lacking any factual basis.
Highlighting Trudeau’s historical hostility towards India, the MEA noted that his government has allowed individuals associated with extremist agendas to flourish within Canada. It emphasized that these accusations coincide with Trudeau’s upcoming testimony before a commission investigating foreign interference in Canadian politics, indicating a diversionary tactic by his administration.
The strained relationship between India and Canada escalated after Nijjar was shot dead in June 2023 in Surrey, British Columbia. Trudeau’s allegations of potential Indian government involvement were promptly dismissed by New Delhi as “absurd.” The MEA criticized the Canadian government for providing a haven to individuals who threaten Indian diplomats and community leaders, while also ignoring multiple extradition requests from India concerning terrorism and organized crime.
In response to the allegations, the MEA defended High Commissioner Sanjay Kumar Verma, describing him as a seasoned diplomat with a distinguished career. The Indian government expressed contempt for the accusations and reiterated its awareness of the activities of the Canadian High Commission that align with the current political regime’s agenda.
As tensions continue to rise, both countries face a complex diplomatic challenge, with India maintaining a strong stance against what it perceives as unjust and politically motivated claims.
