New Delhi: India has strongly dismissed a report by Canada’s Globe and Mail newspaper alleging that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was aware of a plot to assassinate Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, calling the claims a “smear campaign.” The report, citing unnamed Canadian officials, suggested that top Indian officials, including the national security advisor and the external affairs minister, were involved in discussions about the plot. In response, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal categorically rejected the allegations. “Such ludicrous statements made to a newspaper purportedly by a Canadian government source should be dismissed with the contempt they deserve. Smear campaigns like this only further damage our already strained ties,” Mr. Jaiswal stated.
Escalating Diplomatic Crisis
The diplomatic fallout stems from Nijjar’s assassination in Vancouver in June 2023, which prompted Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to accuse India of involvement. Trudeau claimed “credible information” had been shared with intelligence allies, including the United States, regarding Delhi’s alleged role.
In response, both countries expelled diplomats in a series of tit-for-tat moves. Canada expelled Indian High Commissioner Sanjay Verma and other officials, while India retaliated by expelling Canadian Charge d’Affaires Stewart Wheeler and five other diplomats.
Trudeau further escalated tensions by accusing India of engaging in “criminal activity” on Canadian soil. “Whether it be murders, extortion, or other violent acts, it is absolutely unacceptable,” he stated.
Nijjar’s Background and Controversy
Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen and leader of the banned terror outfit Khalistan Tiger Force, was on India’s list of most-wanted terrorists. He was accused of masterminding multiple crimes, including the murder of a Hindu priest in Punjab. India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) had announced a ₹10 lakh reward for information leading to his capture.
Nijjar’s killing has further strained Indo-Canadian relations, which were already under pressure due to disagreements over Khalistani activism in Canada.
Conclusion
India’s outright dismissal of the allegations highlights the ongoing diplomatic standoff between the two nations. With both sides standing firm, the crisis appears far from resolution, adding another layer of complexity to an already fragile relationship.
