Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced in Parliament that Canadian security agencies are investigating “credible allegations of a potential link” between Indian government agents and the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a prominent Sikh-Canadian activist. The tragic event occurred on June 18, when Nijjar was shot in front of a Sikh temple in Surrey, British Columbia. The 45-year-old activist was a supporter of the Khalistan movement, which advocates for a separate homeland for Sikhs in India.
Trudeau’s announcement highlights the seriousness with which Canada is approaching this case and its concern about the potential international implications of the murder. During the G20 summit in New Delhi earlier this month, Trudeau personally expressed “deep concerns” about the issue to his Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi.
The ongoing investigation aims to clarify whether there are connections between Indian government agents and Nijjar’s murder, a crime that has shocked the Sikh-Canadian community and generated diplomatic tensions.
The Khalistan movement has been a source of controversy and conflict in India for decades, and some Sikh groups abroad have been advocating for independence for the Punjab region. Nijjar’s assassination has reignited debates on the Khalistan issue and generated significant interest in both Canada and India.
As the investigation progresses, it is expected to shed light on the details of the murder and any possible government involvement. This case highlights the importance of addressing allegations of political violence seriously and transparently and ensuring that justice is done in the process.