 |
|
The ongoing diplomatic tension between India and Canada reached a new peak following a recent encounter between Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Justin Trudeau on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit in Laos. Trudeau claimed to have raised concerns about the “safety of Canadians” with Modi, specifically referencing the unresolved case of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing on Canadian soil. However, India swiftly refuted Trudeau's statement, asserting that there were no “substantive discussions” during the brief meeting.
The controversy stems from the accusations made by Trudeau in September 2023, alleging “credible allegations” of Indian agents being involved in Nijjar's targeted shooting in June 2023. India vehemently rejected these charges, labeling them as “absurd” and “motivated”. Nijjar, the chief of the Khalistan Tiger Force and a figure wanted by the Indian government, had sought refuge in Canada prior to his death. This incident further fueled tensions between the two nations, with India expressing deep concern over the growing nexus between extremist groups and organized crime in Canada, including drug syndicates and human trafficking.
In response to Trudeau's recent claims, Indian government sources emphasized that the two leaders' encounter was a mere formality, lacking any meaningful dialogue. They reiterated India's expectation that Canada will crack down on anti-India Khalistani activities within its borders and take decisive action against individuals advocating violence and extremism against India from Canadian territory. India also highlighted its growing worries regarding the rise of extremism in Canada, highlighting the concerning link between extremist groups and criminal activities. Despite valuing its relationship with Canada, India firmly stated that the ties cannot be mended unless the Canadian government takes concrete and verifiable measures against those promoting anti-India activities and fomenting hatred, misinformation, and violence within both India and Canada.
Source: India on Trudeau's claim of chat with PM Modi: No substantive discussion