In a developing diplomatic crisis, Canada’s Deputy Foreign Minister David Morrison confirmed to The Washington Post that Indian Union Home Minister Amit Shah allegedly authorized actions against Sikh separatists in Canada. This statement comes amidst escalating tensions between India and Canada following the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a pro-Khalistani activist, which has led to a severe downturn in bilateral relations.
During his testimony before Canada’s Parliament, Morrison revealed that Canadian security agencies have gathered evidence linking a senior Indian official to operations targeting Sikh separatists. Although he did not provide detailed evidence, he acknowledged that he identified Amit Shah in response to inquiries from a journalist. Morrison’s confirmation adds weight to accusations made by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police regarding Indian government involvement in widespread criminal activities in Canada.
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The Indian government has categorically denied these allegations, branding them as “preposterous.” External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar condemned the targeting of Indian diplomats by Canada, stating that India has long highlighted the presence of organized crime in Canada without receiving adequate response from Ottawa. Jaishankar asserted, “We completely reject the manner in which the Canadian government targeted our High Commissioner and diplomats,” emphasizing that India will take a strong stance when its national integrity is at stake.
The diplomatic fallout intensified after Canada identified Indian diplomats as “persons of interest” in Nijjar’s killing, prompting India to recall its High Commissioner and five other diplomats. Relations have plummeted, with accusations from New Delhi that Ottawa has failed to act against Khalistani extremists operating within Canada, which New Delhi claims undermines India’s sovereignty.
Nathalie Drouin, National Security Adviser to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, testified that evidence presented in a meeting linked Indian agents to criminal activities in Canada. She accused India of breaching a confidentiality agreement made during talks, claiming India went public with accusations against Canada shortly after their discussions.
Amidst these allegations, the U.S. has also intervened, charging an Indian national with directing a foiled plot to assassinate Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a prominent pro-Khalistani figure, further complicating the international dimensions of the situation.
The unfolding events signify a critical moment in Indo-Canadian relations, with both nations grappling with allegations that could reshape their diplomatic engagements for the foreseeable future.
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