India’s foreign minister, S Jaishankar, raised concerns about the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar during a discussion with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Jaishankar stated that Canada harbors extremist elements and criticized Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s allegation that “Indian government agents” were involved in Nijjar’s killing.
Jaishankar asserted that Trudeau’s accusation was inconsistent with India’s policy and called it “absurd.” He also accused Canada of having a permissive attitude towards terrorists, extremists, and individuals who openly advocate violence. According to Jaishankar, Canada provides operating space for these elements due to the compulsions of Canadian politics.
Trudeau has not provided any evidence to support his allegations against India. However, reports suggest that this information was shared within an intelligence alliance that includes the US, UK, Australia, and New Zealand. In response, India has accused Canada of offering a safe haven to terrorists.
Blinken expressed concern about Trudeau’s allegations and stated that the US is in close contact with Canada. He emphasized the importance of holding those responsible accountable and urged India to cooperate with Canada in the investigation.
Jaishankar further criticized Canada, highlighting issues such as organized crime, people trafficking, secessionism, violence, and terrorism. He also expressed concerns about the safety of Indian diplomats in Canada.
While India remains open to examining any specific information provided by Canada, Jaishankar emphasized the need for evidence or pointers to initiate an investigation. He reiterated that India has previously shared information about organized crime in Canada and made numerous extradition requests.
The tensions between India and Canada have been escalating since Prime Minister Narendra Modi admonished Trudeau over rising secessionist activities in Canada during a bilateral meeting at the G20 summit in Delhi. In 2018, India reportedly handed Trudeau a list of nine Khalistani operatives.
The situation worsened after Trudeau alleged Indian involvement in Nijjar’s killing. Nijjar was a designated terrorist in India who had relocated to Canada and obtained Canadian citizenship. In response, India and Canada each expelled one diplomat, leading to a larger diplomatic crisis.
Trudeau recently expressed his desire to build closer ties with India, emphasizing its growing economic power and geopolitical significance.
(Note: The article has been rewritten to fit within the token limit)