Canada Accuses India of Supporting Criminal Activities Domestically
Tensions are running high between India and Canada after Canada's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Melanie Joly, accused India of criminal activity on Canadian soil. The allegations stem from the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen and Khalistani leader, who was fatally shot in June 2023 ¹. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated that there was credible evidence linking Indian government agents to Nijjar's murder, which India has strongly denied ¹.
In response to the allegations, India has expelled six Canadian diplomats and withdrawn its High Commissioner and other officials from Canada ¹. India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) rejected Canada's claims, calling them "preposterous" and accusing the Trudeau government of engaging in "vote bank politics" ¹.
The situation has escalated, with Canada's Foreign Minister urging India to support the ongoing investigation into Nijjar's killing ¹. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has released a statement outlining four key concerns, including violent extremism, links between Indian government agents and homicides, organized crime, and interference in democratic processes ¹.
*Key Developments:*
- _India Expels Canadian Diplomats_: Six Canadian diplomats have been expelled from India in response to Canada's allegations ¹.
- _Withdrawal of Indian High Commissioner_: India's High Commissioner to Canada, Sanjay Verma, has been withdrawn along with other officials ¹.
- _Canadian Police Investigation_: The RCMP is investigating Nijjar's killing and has released evidence linking Indian government agents to the crime ¹.
- _International Reaction_: The UK's Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, has expressed support for Canada's stance, emphasizing the importance of the rule of law ¹.
The diplomatic row between India and Canada has significant implications for bilateral relations and trade between the two nations. Experts warn that the situation could further deteriorate if not addressed through diplomatic channels ¹. As the situation continues to unfold, both countries must navigate the complex web of international relations and national interests.
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