The United States has called on the Indian government to collaborate with Canada in investigating the potential involvement of New Delhi agents in the murder of a Canadian citizen in June. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recently disclosed credible intelligence linking Indian agents to the assassination of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, triggering a strong reaction from New Delhi, which vehemently denies the allegations.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed deep concern over the allegations and emphasized the importance of India cooperating with Canada in the investigation. During a press briefing, Blinken stated, “We are deeply concerned about the allegations that Prime Minister Trudeau has raised. It would be important that India work with the Canadians on this investigation. We want to see accountability.”
The White House had previously voiced concerns regarding the allegations, but Blinken’s comments mark the most significant response from a senior US official thus far.
Traditionally, Canada’s allies, including the United States, had taken a cautious approach to the matter. Analysts believe this caution is partly driven by the perception of India as a counterweight to China’s growing influence on the global stage.
Blinken also emphasized close coordination with Canadian authorities on the issue, stating, “We have been consulting throughout very closely with our Canadian colleagues, not just consulting but coordinating with them on this issue.”
Prime Minister Trudeau echoed the call for Indian cooperation during a press conference, saying, “We are there to work constructively with India. We hope that they engage with us so that we can get to the bottom of this very serious matter.”
Trudeau had previously indicated that Canada had shared its concerns with New Delhi several weeks ago. Reports suggest that Canada has gathered both human and signal intelligence during a months-long investigation into the murder, including communications from Indian officials in Canada. However, specific details of the intelligence have not been disclosed or confirmed by Canadian authorities.
Trudeau’s decision to publicly address the issue suggests a high level of confidence in the intelligence gathered by Canadian spy agencies. The situation continues to unfold, with international pressure mounting for a thorough investigation into the alleged involvement of Indian agents in the murder of a Canadian citizen.