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The diplomatic relationship between India and Canada has hit a new low following a heated exchange of accusations and recriminations. The conflict stems from Canada's investigation into the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani terrorist, with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleging involvement of Indian diplomats. The Indian government has vehemently rejected these allegations, branding them as "preposterous imputations" and accusing Trudeau of employing anti-India rhetoric for domestic political gains.
The incident began with Canada's decision to designate certain Indian diplomats as "persons of interest" in the Nijjar assassination investigation. This sparked a strong reaction from India, which condemned the move as an unwarranted interference in its internal affairs. The situation escalated further when Trudeau publicly accused India of being involved in the killing, leading to the summoning of Canada's chargé d'affaires, Stewart Wheeler, by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
India's response was swift and forceful. The MEA released a statement denouncing Trudeau's accusations as baseless and politically motivated. The statement further highlighted Trudeau's past association with separatist elements and his history of using India-related issues for domestic political advantage. The MEA accused Trudeau of attempting to exploit the issue for vote-bank politics, citing his previous visit to India in 2018, which was deemed unsuccessful. The statement also pointed to Trudeau's cabinet members who have openly supported extremist and separatist agendas regarding India.
This diplomatic row underscores the complexities and sensitivities surrounding the issue of Khalistan, a movement seeking an independent Sikh state in India's Punjab region. The ongoing conflict between India and Canada over the Nijjar case has further strained bilateral relations, raising concerns about potential repercussions for trade, investment, and other areas of cooperation. The incident also highlights the delicate balance between national security concerns, diplomatic protocols, and political expediency, especially in a context where domestic political agendas can influence international relations.
Source: India summons Canadian diplomat after Trudeau's 'preposterous imputations'