Justin Trudeau Accuses India of Orchestrating Violence, Deepening Row Over Sikh Dissidents
Canada’s Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, has raised allegations against the Indian government, accusing them of orchestrating violence in the country. This statement further escalates the tension between India and Canada over New Delhi’s alleged targeting of Sikh separatists based in Canada.
Trudeau made these accusations during an inquiry on foreign interference, stating that there are strong indications of India violating Canada’s sovereignty by targeting Sikh dissidents. He described India’s actions as a “horrific mistake.”
The rift between the two countries began with the assassination of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Vancouver in June 2023. Trudeau claimed that Canadian authorities have credible evidence linking Indian agents to Nijjar’s murder, resulting in the arrest of four Indian nationals in connection with the crime.
Despite India denying any involvement in the assassination, Trudeau insisted at the inquiry that Indian government representatives were targeting dissidents in Canada. He emphasized the importance of standing up for Canadian sovereignty, even though it may strain the relationship with a significant trading partner.
US Accusations
In addition to Canada’s accusations, the United States has also accused India of attempting to assassinate a Sikh separatist on American soil. The US charged an Indian national, Nikhil Gupta, with plotting against Sikh American activist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in coordination with an Indian government employee. A meeting between the US and India regarding the investigation into the foiled plot was described as productive by a US State Department spokesperson.