NEW YORK: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau continues to press India for cooperation in the investigation of the murder of Khalistani Sikh Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen, near Vancouver in June.
On the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Trudeau made a public appeal, stating, “We call upon the government of India to work with us to establish processes to uncover the truth of this matter and to allow for justice and accountability to be served.”
However, Trudeau declined to provide the evidence that had led him to accuse Indian agents of involvement in Nijjar’s murder earlier in the week. He suggested that any evidence would be presented in court if the case were to go to trial.
Trudeau’s accusations earlier in the week triggered a major diplomatic row between Canada and India. The fallout from his allegations resulted in tit-for-tat diplomatic expulsions and a firm denial from India, which described any suggestion of its involvement in Nijjar’s killing as “absurd.” Furthermore, India suspended the processing of visa applications in Canada, citing “security threats” that were allegedly “disrupting” the work of their officials. India also requested a reduction in Canadian diplomatic staff stationed in the country.
When asked about the relatively muted response from Canada’s allies, Trudeau emphasized that his government was not seeking to provoke or create problems. Western powers, led by the United States, have been actively pursuing stronger ties with India, viewing the billion-plus democracy as a natural ally, especially amid growing concerns about China’s influence in the region. Trudeau acknowledged this by saying, “There is no question that India is a country of growing importance, and a country that we need to continue to work with.”
As the diplomatic row continues to unfold, Trudeau’s plea for India to cooperate in the investigation underscores the importance of the rule of law and the pursuit of justice, even in the face of strained international relations.
