Canada recently expelled six top Indian diplomats and consular officials, including India’s high commissioner, amid allegations of their involvement in the murder of Sikh separatist figure, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, in Vancouver. Nijjar’s assassination in June 2023 sparked a diplomatic spat when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused the Indian government of complicity. New Delhi denied the allegations.
Canadian law enforcement authorities accused the Indian government of running a wide-ranging criminal network to target Canadian Sikh separatists. This led to the expulsion of Indian officials, while India reciprocated by expelling Canadian diplomats. The escalating tensions highlight a strained relationship between the two Commonwealth nations.
India criticized Trudeau’s decision as politically motivated and withdrew its diplomats, citing security concerns. Meanwhile, Canada alleged Indian involvement in criminal activities to threaten Canadian safety. The Indian government refuted these claims, citing a lack of evidence provided by Canada.
Notably, US prosecutors charged an Indian national with a failed assassination attempt on Sikh activist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, revealing the complex web of international intrigue involving India and its diaspora communities.