New Delhi: Diplomatic tensions between India and Canada escalated dramatically after Canada attempted to interrogate Indian diplomats in connection with the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a prominent Sikh separatist leader. The move was strongly condemned by the Indian government, which called the allegations “absurd” and “politically motivated”.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) had requested the waiver of diplomatic immunity of several Indian diplomats, including the Indian High Commissioner, to facilitate their interrogation. This request was strongly opposed by India, which accused Canada of trying to implicate its diplomats without any substantive evidence.
In response to Canada’s actions, India has expelled six Canadian diplomats and recalled its high commissioner and five other diplomats from Canada, citing concerns about their safety. Expelled Canadian diplomats include Acting High Commissioner Stewart Ross Wheeler and several other senior officials.
The diplomatic dispute stems from the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was shot dead outside a Sikh temple in Surrey, British Columbia, in June 2023. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had previously claimed that there was credible evidence linking Indian government agents to the killing, a claim India has vehemently denied.
India’s foreign ministry released a statement condemning Canada’s actions, saying: “The allegations are absurd and part of a political agenda. We will not tolerate any attempts to denigrate our diplomats or our country.” The ministry also stressed that India remains committed to maintaining diplomatic relations based on mutual respect and non-interference.
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