Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau Accuses India of Murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Leading to Diplomatic Crisis
New Delhi, 20th September 2023: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has accused the Indian government of the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Sikh separatist leader who campaigned for the creation of an independent Sikh state called “Khalistan”. Nijjar was shot dead in the parking lot of a gurudwara in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada on June 18, 2023.
Trudeau’s accusation has led to a diplomatic crisis between India and Canada. India has vehemently denied the allegations, calling them “baseless” and “unfounded”. India has also summoned the Canadian ambassador to protest the accusations.
The diplomatic crisis has also had an impact on the relationship between the two countries. Canada has expelled an Indian diplomat, and India has responded in kind by expelling a Canadian diplomat.
The United States, Britain, and Australia have expressed concern about the diplomatic crisis between India and Canada. US President Joe Biden has urged the two countries to resolve their differences diplomatically.
Nijjar’s son, Balraj Nijjar, has thanked Trudeau for raising the issue of his father’s murder. However, Canadian opposition leaders have criticized Trudeau for making the accusations without providing any evidence.
The diplomatic crisis between India and Canada is a serious matter. It is important for the two countries to resolve their differences diplomatically so as to avoid further damage to their relationship.
