Tensions between India and Canada have escalated following the expulsion of top diplomats from both countries over the assassination of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused Indian agents of being involved in the June 2023 murder, based on what he called credible evidence from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
The RCMP disclosed ongoing investigations into alleged Indian involvement in violent acts against pro-Khalistan supporters in Canada.
India has denied the accusations as “preposterous” and politically motivated, accusing Trudeau of exploiting the issue to gain favour with Canada’s large Sikh community. Canada, in turn, has expelled several Indian diplomats, while India has retaliated by asking Canada to remove its acting High Commissioner and other diplomatic staff.
The diplomatic row has led to a sharp deterioration in relations between the two nations.
India suspended visa services for Canadian citizens and dismissed the allegations as baseless.
Meanwhile, Canada has called for an investigation into the claims, stating that the threats to pro-Khalistan supporters on Canadian soil are serious and ongoing.
The situation has further strained bilateral ties, which had seen a brief improvement after India resumed visa services in late 2023.
