A diplomatic crisis has erupted as Canada accuses India of involvement in the assassination of separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, sparking fierce denials from India. Nijjar, a fugitive with a criminal history in India, sought asylum in Canada in 1997, claiming persecution due to his alleged affiliation with a particular social group. However, Canada rejected his asylum request, citing a fabricated narrative.
Nijjar’s attempts to secure immigration, including a dubious marriage arrangement, were also rejected by Canada. Despite over a dozen criminal cases against Nijjar in India, Canadian authorities took no action based on Indian agency information. Instead, Nijjar was placed on a no-fly list.
Tragedy struck when Nijjar was assassinated in British Columbia. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India of involvement, a charge India vehemently denied, demanding evidence. This standoff strains India-Canada relations and raises questions about intelligence-sharing networks. India suspended visa services in Canada, labeling it a “safe haven for terrorists,” further impacting bilateral ties.
