Canadian officials have reportedly provided evidence to the Indian government linking them to the murder of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The evidence, which includes communications and phone numbers, was exchanged between security officials of the two countries, according to anonymous sources familiar with the matter. The information was shared several days before Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau publicly alleged India's involvement in Nijjar's shooting death. Canadian authorities have also approached some members of the Indian diaspora in Canada who they believe may have knowledge of the murder.
While Trudeau claimed that the allegations were raised with India "many weeks ago," the Indian government denies that any official information concerning Nijjar's murder has been shared with them by Canada. India's Ministry of External Affairs stated that they are willing to consider any specific information provided, but as of now, they haven't received any such details. This has resulted in strained relations between the two countries, adversely affecting Indian students studying in Canada and Indian expatriates.
The claims of Indian government involvement in the assassination have heightened tensions between India and Canada, leading to the suspension of visa issuance to Canadians by India. Additionally, India has asked Canada to reduce its diplomatic presence in the country. In response to concerns about the safety of its diplomatic staff, Canada's High Commission in New Delhi has announced adjustments to its staff levels at missions in India.
The murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen declared a terrorist by India, occurred on June 18 outside a Sikh temple in Surrey, British Columbia. No arrests have been made in the case. The Indian government has dismissed the allegations leveled against them by Canada as "absurd." However, Canada remains committed to seeking a constructive resolution and hopes that India will engage in a dialogue to address this serious matter.