The Canadian government has conducted an extensive investigation into the murder of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, which it claims was carried out by agents of India, according to a report by CBC News. This has led to heightened tensions between the two countries, with tit-for-tat expulsions of diplomats and travel advisories. The United States and other major players have maintained a cautious approach due to viewing India as a counterweight to China’s growing influence. The intelligence gathered by Canada includes communications of Indian officials, including Indian diplomats present in Canada. Some of this intelligence was provided by an unnamed ally in the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing network.
The report also revealed that the Canadian Security Intelligence Service had warned Nijjar about the potential risks he faced. Canadian officials have made multiple visits to India in an attempt to gain cooperation in the investigation. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau emphasized the seriousness of the allegations during a meeting at the UN General Assembly, stating that they were not made lightly.
The United States has expressed concern over the incident and has made it clear that India will not receive special treatment. The US is in contact with the Indian government and will consult closely with Canada as they pursue their law enforcement and diplomatic processes.
Other countries, such as Australia and the UK, have also expressed concern and offered support to Canada in its investigation. Pakistan’s Prime Minister and Foreign Office have criticized India’s alleged involvement in extra-territorial killings and expressed solidarity with Canada.
The tensions between Canada and India, along with the involvement of other countries, highlight the complex web of international relations and the challenges of conducting investigations involving multiple nations.