US State Department spokesperson Mathew Miller stated that India can address the Canadian allegations regarding the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar and the ongoing investigations. He noted that Washington has urged New Delhi to cooperate with the Canadian investigation. Miller, during a press briefing, was asked whether the Canadian allegations would be discussed during the meeting between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and US counterpart Antony Blinken. However, he refrained from commenting on the issue, stating that he will not speak publicly about what will be discussed in the meeting before Blinken has a chance to address it directly with his counterparts. Miller emphasized that the US has consistently engaged with the Indian government on this matter and will continue to urge them to cooperate.
Furthermore, Miller declined to comment on India’s response to the US’ call for cooperation, stating that he will not discuss private diplomatic conversations. He added that India can speak for itself regarding this matter and reiterated the US’ urge for cooperation with the Canadian investigation.
Earlier, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused the Indian government of being involved in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a claim that India has vehemently denied. Antony Blinken expressed deep concern about Trudeau’s allegations and emphasized the importance of accountability. He stated that the US has been in close consultation and coordination with Canada on this issue. Blinken emphasized the need for the Canadian investigation to proceed and for India to work with Canada in this regard.
It is worth noting that Canada has not yet provided any public evidence to support their claims regarding the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. In response to Trudeau’s allegations, India has suspended its visa services in Canada and issued an advisory for its citizens and travelers to exercise caution due to growing anti-India activities and politically-condoned hate crimes.