The relations between India and Canada have taken a sour turn as tensions continue to rise following the expulsion of an Indian diplomat in connection with the murder case of Sikh leader, Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Nijjar, a designated terrorist by the Indian government, was shot dead in Canada on June 18th. The whole matter casts a spotlight on the Khalistani terrorist Nijjar, and how Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was willing to risk ties with India for his defense.
Nijjar was a well-known Khalistani extremist and president of the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara in Canada. He also held a prominent position within Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), an extremist organization advocating for Khalistan, an independent Sikh homeland. His involvement in the Khalistan Tiger Force, established in 2014, further cemented his status as a key figure within the movement.
Navigating a complicated past, Nijjar entered Canada as a refugee using a fake passport in 1997. When his application was rejected by the Canadian government, he quickly married a Canadian woman within 11 days to secure citizenship. Since then, he has been actively promoting Khalistani terrorism in Canada.
Over the years, Nijjar’s name appeared in relation to multiple violent acts. In 2007, he was implicated in an explosion at a theatre in Ludhiana that resulted in six deaths. He also provided financial support to individuals involved in assassinating former Punjab Chief Minister Beant Singh. As a consequence of his actions, Interpol issued a notice against him.
During Prime Minister Trudeau’s visit to India in 2018, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh gave him a list of terrorists that included Nijar’s name. Despite this statement, Trudeau still appears to support Nijar.
India and Canada have a long-standing relationship with a large Indian population in Canada. However, relations were tense due to the Khalistan issue. Over the years, some figures from Canada’s Sikh community have supported Khalistan’s demand, raising concerns about India’s national security.
India reiterated the issue of Khalistani insurgency to the Canadian government and urged the Canadian government to deal harshly against the Khalistani insurgency. Individuals and organizations that encourage violence and separatism. But Canada faces challenges in addressing this issue while protecting freedom of expression and civil rights.
Given the continuous investigation into Nijjar’s murder, media reports state that Canadian security agencies have expressed displeasure over India’s involvement. Trudeau’s choice to back Khalistani terrorists has expanded pressures between India and Canada, which seem have long-term impacts on the two countries’ foreign relations. Presently, as the story progresses, the world is observing to see how such a circumstance happens and whether the two countries can repair their relations some time recently it is as well late.
The issue of extremism in Khalistan and its effect on India-Canada relations has pulled in international attention. Countries around the world take after the developments closely and express their concerns.
Some countries acted decisively against the Khalistan insurgency and supported India’s counter-terrorism efforts. Others called for balance to address concerns from India and Canada. The involvement of the international community in this issue further emphasizes the importance of the issue and the need for a coordinated response.
If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch with us using our contact form or via email, we will try our best to reply to you promptly with an answer to your query.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only, exclusively written and published by IntraSource. The published information sourced from various trusted platforms, such as news agencies and online media, mainly Government of Canada and Canadian online media/websites, and should not be considered as legal or professional advice. IRCC’s requirements may change, so consult lawyer/s and receive a professional advice before making decisions or applications.
