Canadian Prime Minister Calls on India to Cooperate in Investigation of Sikh Separatist Leader’s Murder
NEW YORK, Sept 21 (Reuters) – Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has called on India to cooperate with an investigation into the murder of a Sikh separatist leader in British Columbia. Trudeau also stated that Canada would not release its evidence in the case.
Trudeau’s statement came after Ottawa revealed credible allegations linking Indian government agents to the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen. The Indian government has reacted angrily to these claims.
According to CBC News, the Canadian government has conducted a months-long investigation into Nijjar’s murder, gathering both human and signals intelligence. Traditional Canadian allies have taken a cautious approach to the matter, with analysts suggesting that their stance is influenced by the need to balance China’s growing influence.
During a press conference in New York, Trudeau emphasized the importance of the rule of law and the protection of Canadians. He called on the Indian government to work with Canada in uncovering the truth behind the murder.
The CBC report stated that no Indian official has denied the allegations in private discussions, and the Ministry of External Affairs did not respond to a request for comment. The report also mentioned that the intelligence collected includes communications involving Indian officials, including diplomats stationed in Canada. Some of the information was provided by an unidentified ally in the Five Eyes alliance, an intelligence-sharing network that includes the U.S., the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
The United States is in contact with both Canada and India regarding Ottawa’s allegations, according to U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan. This confirms that Washington is discussing the matter with New Delhi. Sullivan emphasized that there is no special exemption for actions like these, and the issue is of concern to the United States.
The murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar was raised during a meeting between U.S. President Joe Biden, members of the Five Eyes, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the G20 summit this month, according to the Financial Times.
India’s foreign ministry stated that Canada has not shared any specific information about the murder. Nijjar was designated as a “terrorist” by India in July 2020 due to his support for an independent Khalistani state for Sikhs.
Trudeau responded to questions about releasing the evidence by stating that Canada allows its justice processes to unfold with integrity. When asked about India’s measures, such as suspending new visas for Canadians and requesting a reduction in Ottawa’s diplomatic presence, Trudeau did not provide a direct response.
An Indian trade official stated that there is no reason for Canadian pension funds to withdraw their investments in India.
Additional reporting by Andrea Shalal in Washington and Chandni Shah in Bengaluru; writing by David Ljunggren; editing by Paul Simao, Barbara Lewis, and Grant McCool.
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