May 9th 2024.
India has been informed by Canada about the arrest of three Indian citizens in connection with the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, but no specific evidence or information has been provided yet. This was clarified by Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, who also expressed concern about the matter being pre-judged without proper evidence.
Jaiswal addressed the issue at his weekly media briefing, stating that the lack of relevant evidence from Canadian authorities has led to a biased view of the situation. Last week, three Indian nationals were charged with Nijjar's murder, with reports stating that they had entered Canada on student visas.
Jaiswal also highlighted the political interests at play in this matter, stating that separatists, extremists, and those who advocate violence have been given a platform in Canada. He also brought attention to the threats and obstruction faced by Indian diplomats in Canada, and the allowance of organized crime figures with ties to India to enter and reside there.
The two countries are currently engaged in discussions regarding the activities of pro-Khalistan elements and the safety of Indian diplomats in Canada. Jaiswal also mentioned that many of India's extradition requests are still pending with Canada, and that discussions are ongoing at the diplomatic level.
In a separate incident, India called out Canada for providing a safe haven and political space to criminal and secessionist elements after a parade in Ontario's Malton area displayed an effigy of the Indian prime minister in an offensive manner. India also expressed concerns about the glorification of violence and the safety of Indian diplomats in Canada, urging the Canadian government to ensure that they can carry out their duties without fear.
The strained relationship between India and Canada began when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made allegations in September last year about potential involvement of Indian agents in Nijjar's murder. These allegations were deemed absurd by India, and tensions rose even further when Canada withdrew 41 diplomats and their family members from India after India requested a downsizing of their diplomatic presence in the country.
India has consistently emphasized that their main issue with Canada is the allowance of separatists, terrorists, and anti-India elements in their country. The recent events have only added to these concerns and have led to discussions between the two nations at the diplomatic level.
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