India Calls for Dialogue with Canada to Resolve Differences in Opinion on Killing of Khalistan Terrorist Nijjar
New Delhi/Washington: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar insisted that the governments of India and Canada should engage in dialogue to resolve the differences in opinion regarding the killing of Khalistan terrorist Nijjar. Jaishankar, who is on a tour in the United States, stated that while the allegation made by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accusing Indian intelligence agencies of involvement in the killing was baseless, the broader issue of Canada’s tolerance towards terrorism, separatism, and violence needed to be addressed.
The recent exchange between the two countries has further strained bilateral relations, resulting in the ordering of the departure of each other’s consular officials and the suspension of entry visas for Canadian nationals by India. This has led to a serious rift between the two nations.
Highlighting Canada’s track record, Jaishankar stated, “The problem with Canada has been going on for the last few years. The issue revolves around the Canadian government’s sanctioning of terrorism, separatism, and violence. Canada has not given an adequate response to Indian requests to extradite terrorists.”
The situation in Canada has escalated beyond mere diplomatic disagreements, with incidents of violence and threats against Indian officials. A smoke bomb was recently hurled at the Indian embassy in Canada, and threatening posters were put up outside consulates. Jaishankar stressed that such acts cannot be taken for granted and called for due attention to be paid to what is happening in Canada. He emphasized, “Threatening consular officials in the name of free speech is never acceptable.”
Addressing the accusations made by Canada, Jaishankar clarified, “Let me make it clear that the matter referred to in the allegation is not India’s policy. If any evidence is shared by the Canadian side, India is ready to consider it.”
During his visit to the United States, Jaishankar also discussed the diplomatic issue between India and Canada with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan. Canada has long been home to Khalistan separatists who are banned in India. India has repeatedly accused Canada of allowing these individuals to operate freely and not taking appropriate action against them, despite providing evidence.
While details of Jaishankar’s meeting with US Defense Minister Lloyd Austin were not immediately available, it is expected that discussions on the India-Canada issue were also held. Both India and the United States have a shared interest in combating terrorism and ensuring regional stability.
As tensions escalate between India and Canada, it remains crucial for both sides to engage in dialogue, address each other’s concerns, and find a solution that helps restore bilateral relations and cooperation.