Janice R. Andrews
The United States and United Kingdom have joined forces in urging India to collaborate with Canadian authorities amidst growing diplomatic tensions. The dispute centers on Canada’s allegations that Indian agents were involved in violent activities against Indian dissidents on Canadian soil, including targeted killings. These investigations, led by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), have gained momentum since their initial revelation in September 2023.
At the heart of the controversy lies the June 2023 murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a prominent Khalistan movement leader and Sikh separatist, who was fatally shot outside his temple in British Columbia. While Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has presented what he terms “credible evidence” of Indian involvement, Indian authorities have dismissed these claims as baseless.
Both the UK Foreign Office and US State Department have voiced strong support for Canada’s position. The UK expressed “full confidence” in Canada’s judicial process, while US spokesperson Matthew Miller emphasized their desire to see Indian cooperation in the investigation. This backing reflects the solidarity among Five Eyes intelligence alliance members, which includes Canada, the US, UK, Australia, and New Zealand.
The situation has triggered a series of diplomatic repercussions, including mutual expulsion of senior diplomats. Recent RCMP findings have identified “over a dozen credible and imminent threats” against pro-Khalistan individuals, further escalating concerns. Despite attempts at diplomatic resolution, including a meeting between Canadian security advisers and Indian officials in Singapore, the impasse continues.
India maintains its stance of non-involvement in Nijjar’s death and suggests that Trudeau’s allegations are politically motivated, particularly given Canada’s significant Sikh population. Meanwhile, Canada insists on its duty to protect citizens from foreign threats.
The ongoing dispute has not only damaged India-Canada relations but also created diplomatic challenges within the broader international community, as Western nations advocate for India’s serious engagement with Canada’s legal proceedings.
