Indian ambassador is a ‘person of interest’ in Canada murder case
- Canada expelled six Indian diplomats, including the high commissioner, due to evidence of violent criminal activity linked to the Indian government.
- India responded by recalling its ambassador and other diplomats, denouncing the allegations as baseless and politically motivated.
- The ongoing diplomatic tensions reflect a significant deterioration in relations between the two countries, with both sides taking retaliatory actions.
In October 2024, diplomatic tensions escalated between Canada and India following allegations of Indian government involvement in the assassination of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia. The Canadian government expelled six Indian diplomats, including the high commissioner, citing evidence of violent criminal activity linked to Indian agents. In retaliation, India recalled its ambassador and other diplomats, rejecting Canada's claims as baseless and politically motivated. The situation has been fraught since September 2023, when Prime Minister Justin Trudeau publicly stated that credible evidence connected Indian agents to Nijjar's killing. India has consistently denied these allegations, demanding proof from Canada, which has not been provided despite multiple requests. The diplomatic row has led to a significant deterioration in relations, with both countries taking steps to withdraw their diplomatic personnel amid accusations of extremism and violence. The ongoing dispute highlights the complexities of international relations, particularly concerning issues of national security and the treatment of diaspora communities.