Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has intensified diplomatic tensions by reiterating his controversial claim that “Indian government agents” played a role in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Trudeau asserts that these “credible allegations” were shared with India several weeks ago. This development marks a significant escalation in the ongoing dispute between the two nations, with both sides trading accusations and taking punitive measures. Here are 10 key points to understand the deepening diplomatic row between Canada and India:
1. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accuses “Indian government agents” of involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, intensifying the diplomatic dispute.
2. Trudeau claims to have shared “credible allegations” with India regarding Nijjar’s killing, which he previously linked to India.
3. India swiftly denies Trudeau’s allegations, stating that Canada has not provided specific information to support its claims and highlighting “politically condoned hate crimes” in Canada.
4. The exchange of accusations leads to tit-for-tat measures, including the expulsion of diplomats, further escalating tensions between the two countries.
5. India suspends visa services, citing “security threats” to its diplomatic missions in Canada, while accusing Canada of “diplomatic interference” in its internal affairs.
6. India calls on Canada to reduce the number of its diplomats in India, citing an imbalance in diplomatic representation.
7. Both countries issue travel advisories and expel a senior diplomat from the other nation, marking a week of heightened tensions and mutual accusations.
8. India accuses Canada of failing to act on “specific evidence about criminal activities” involving individuals based in Canada, including political figures expressing sympathy for such elements.
9. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken urges India to cooperate with Canada and emphasizes the importance of a thorough investigation to establish accountability.
10. Tensions between India and Canada had been simmering, with prior incidents including Prime Minister Modi’s rebuke of Trudeau over Khalistan supporters’ actions in Canada and the postponement of a planned trade mission to India. Canada has become a hub for Sikh expatriates, leading to increased concerns over extremism and Khalistani activities in the country.