Canada’s Support to Khalistani Terrorism

Is Justin Trudeau reconsidering his approach to diplomatic relations with India? Just a day after accusing India of orchestrating the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada, Trudeau has been quoted as saying that Canada is not seeking to provoke India. However, this statement may come a bit too late, considering the tit-for-tat expulsion of diplomats that has already taken place. Additionally, a closer examination of the statements made by Canada's Western allies suggests that none of them, including the US, have publicly expressed support for Canada's stance. In fact, some reports suggest that these allies even refused to issue a joint statement with Canada regarding the Nijjar case. It remains uncertain whether Trudeau will reevaluate his position, but what is evident is that there are several issues with Canada's approach.

Firstly, Canada's actions were based on "credible allegations" rather than concrete evidence. There is a significant distinction between allegations and evidence. Secondly, India has legitimate reasons to voice its concerns. It has repeatedly communicated with the Canadian government about the presence of extremist Khalistanis in Canada, who have targeted Indian diplomats. Canadian authorities were also alerted to the risks posed by Khalistani groups to Canada itself due to their connections with global narcotics networks and Pakistan-backed terrorist organizations. Nevertheless, these extremists seem to operate with relative impunity. Thirdly, while Sikhs make up 2.1% of Canada's population, radical elements within the community wield disproportionate influence in Canadian politics, particularly in provinces like British Columbia, where they play a role in mobilizing Sikh votes.

This context helps explain Trudeau's political posturing. Faced with low approval ratings and leading a minority government, he may be seeking an issue to boost his popularity. India should remain steadfast and allow Trudeau to determine how far he is willing to take this situation.

The Trudeau government's allegation lacks credibility and appears to be part of a coordinated effort to target India. It is likely that Khalistani extremist Nijjar, who was involved in criminal activities and gang conflicts, fell victim to his own criminal associates.

Exactly three months after the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani extremist and the leader of the Khalistan Tiger Force, as well as the head of Guru Nanak Sikh Gurudwara in Surrey, Vancouver, Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau made a startling announcement during an emergency session of parliament. He claimed there were "credible allegations" of the involvement of "Indian agents" in Nijjar's death and ordered the expulsion of a senior Indian diplomat for their alleged role in the "assassination."

Trudeau used the term "credible allegations" rather than "credible evidence." Despite three months passing since the incident, Canadian agencies have not disclosed any significant progress in their investigation into the killing, and there is no publicly available evidence to support Trudeau's statement. However, Trudeau's statement is likely to influence further investigations into the case.