The Background
Canada: Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistan separatist and designated terrorist, was assassinated outside a Gurdwara in Surrey, a Vancouver suburb, in June. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has since stated that there are “credible allegations” of Indian involvement in Nijjar’s death, which India has vehemently denied.
The Latest Developments Canada:
- US Involvement: US Ambassador to Canada, David Cohen, confirmed that the ‘Five Eyes’ intelligence-sharing alliance, comprising Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK, and the US, provided intel to PM Trudeau about the potential involvement of Indian agents in Nijjar’s murder.
- Cohen, in a conversation with CTV News, refuted claims from a Washington Post report suggesting that Ottawa had earlier sought support from allies, including the US, to condemn the killing, but the request was denied.
- Cohen emphasized the collaborative communication between Canadian and the US on this matter.
- US Standpoint: US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, expressed deep concern over Trudeau’s allegations against India. At a New York press conference, he revealed that the US has been in touch with the Indian government regarding the issue, emphasizing the importance of completing the investigation.
- Evidence Sharing: PM Trudeau stated that Canadian had shared evidence of India’s alleged involvement in Nijjar’s assassination “many weeks ago”. However, he did not divulge specifics about the shared intel.
- Action in India: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) in India has seized properties belonging to Sikhs for Justice’s chief, Gurpatwant Singh Pannu, in relation to a 2020 terror case. The properties are located in Amritsar and Chandigarh. Pannu, who faces multiple criminal charges in Punjab, is believed to be operating from Canada.
- Trudeau on Relations: Emphasizing a desire for peaceful relations, Trudeau urged India to cooperate in unveiling the truth behind the Nijjar case.
- Intelligence Report: According to CBC News, the Canadian government has acquired both human and signals intelligence during their investigation of Nijjar’s death. The report suggests that Canada’s allegations are based on this intelligence and include communications involving Indian diplomats in Canada.
- Diplomatic Impact: Due to the rising tensions, New Delhi has halted visa services for Canadians indefinitely. Conversely, Ottawa has adjusted its staff presence in India after receiving threats on social media.
In summary, the death of Hardeep Nijjar has strained diplomatic relations between India and Canada, with both nations taking significant actions in the wake of the allegations. The involvement of the ‘Five Eyes’ intelligence alliance adds another layer to the unfolding situation.