On October 14, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made explosive allegations against India, accusing it of orchestrating the assassination of a Sikh leader and subsequently expelling six Indian diplomats from Canada. These actions followed claims that an Indian official was involved in the murder of the Sikh activist in British Columbia last year.
Trudeau stated he possesses “credible and compelling evidence” that agents of the Indian government have been engaged in activities that pose a significant threat to Canadian public safety. He highlighted that these activities include covert information gathering, coercion, and involvement in numerous threats and acts of violence, including murder and extortion.
In response to Canada’s accusations, Indian officials have denied any wrongdoing and have criticized Trudeau for allegedly politicizing the situation. They announced the expulsion of six Canadian diplomats, including two high-ranking officials from the Canadian mission in New Delhi, and recalled their own High Commissioner to Canada.
A knowledgeable Canadian official revealed that Canada had requested the withdrawal of diplomatic immunity for the Indian personnel involved to facilitate potential charges, but India rejected this request. Following this, Canada issued a notice declaring that the Indian officials would be expelled.
During a meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the East Asia Summit in Laos last week, Trudeau asserted, “I made it clear to Modi that he needs to take this matter seriously.” However, this one-on-one discussion did not resolve the escalating tensions between the two countries.
Canada is home to the largest Sikh community outside of India, while the majority of Sikhs in India reside in the northwestern state of Punjab. The Indian government contends that some Sikh activists in Canada are actively involved in a separatist movement aimed at creating a Sikh nation called Khalistan, independent from India.
