Trudeau's Defense: Public Declaration Aims to Deter India's Unlawful Acts

Canadian PM Trudeau defended his public statement accusing India of involvement in the killing of Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. He aimed to deter India from such actions, citing 'credible allegations.' Despite warnings to India and discussions with PM Modi, no evidence was shared. This escalated tensions between the nations.

Image Source -www.economictimes.indiatimes.com

In a recent development, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has defended his decision to publicly state allegations linking Indian agents to the killing of Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Trudeau's action, aimed at deterring India from such activities, has sparked tensions between the two countries. He emphasized that on September 18, his revelation in the Canadian Parliament was a measure to dissuade India from continuing similar actions on Canadian soil. This move comes amidst ongoing strains between India and Canada.

The deceased, Nijjar, an Indian-origin Canadian citizen, was fatally shot outside a gurdwara in British Columbia, Canada, on June 18, by unidentified assailants. Trudeau abruptly addressed the Canadian Parliament, alleging India's involvement in the killing, almost three months after the incident. He clarified that this public revelation was intended to ‘put a chill’ on India, amplifying the deterrence against such actions.

Trudeau acknowledged that Canadian officials had cautioned New Delhi about their concerns regarding the situation and had attempted to handle the issue through diplomatic channels. He also mentioned discussing this matter with Indian PM Narendra Modi during their meeting at the G20 Summit in New Delhi.

Also Read: Pakistani Court Indicts Imran Khan For Leaking Nation's Secrets, Further Troubles For Ex-PM

When questioned about evidence sharing, Trudeau explained that Canada is investigating the murder, citing different legal processes than the US. In contrast, US authorities shared information about a similar case. However, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar confirmed that Canada did not provide any evidence to India, unlike the US, which shared inputs regarding allegations.

Recently, US federal prosecutors charged Nikhil Gupta with collaborating with an Indian government employee in a thwarted plot to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurupatwant Singh Pannun. This move by the US raised concerns and tensions, further highlighting the strained relations between India, Canada, and the US.

This incident has sparked a diplomatic row, intensifying tensions between India and Canada, while raising questions about evidence sharing and the handling of such sensitive international matters.