India Summons Canadian Diplomat After 'Preposterous' Allegations Linked To Nijjar's Death

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has summoned Stewart Wheeler, the Canadian deputy High Commissioner. This action follows accusations from Canada regarding Indian envoy Sanjay Kumar Verma. The allegations suggest that Verma and other diplomats are "persons of interest" in an investigation related to the death of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Relations between India and Canada have been tense since Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's claims last September. He alleged "potential" involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen of Indian origin. India dismissed these accusations as "absurd" and "politically-motivated," emphasizing Canada's tolerance towards pro-Khalistan elements operating freely on its soil.

India's Response to Allegations

The MEA strongly criticized Canada after receiving diplomatic communication on Sunday. They rejected the "preposterous imputations" against High Commissioner Verma, accusing Trudeau's government of using "vote bank politics" to tarnish India's image deliberately. The ministry stated that despite numerous requests, Ottawa had not provided any evidence supporting Trudeau's allegations against India.

"This latest step follows interactions that have again witnessed assertions without any facts," said the ministry. "This leaves little doubt that on the pretext of an investigation, there is a deliberate strategy of smearing India for political gains." The statement highlighted that Trudeau's hostility towards India has been evident for years.

Diplomatic Tensions Escalate

In 2018, Trudeau's visit to India aimed at gaining favour with certain groups backfired. His cabinet included individuals associated with extremist agendas concerning India. Moreover, his interference in Indian politics in December 2020 further strained relations. His government's reliance on a party led by someone advocating separatism worsened matters.

The MEA defended High Commissioner Verma, describing him as India's senior-most diplomat with a distinguished 36-year career. They deemed the aspersions cast by Canada as "ludicrous" and deserving contempt. The ministry also criticized Trudeau for promoting an anti-India separatist agenda for narrow political gains.

Potential Diplomatic Retaliation

India warned it might take further steps against the Canadian High Commission due to its activities serving Canada's political agenda. This led to implementing reciprocity principles concerning diplomatic representation. India reserves the right to respond to Canada's latest efforts to concoct allegations against Indian diplomats.

The strong statement from India followed a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Trudeau at the ASEAN Summit in Laos. This meeting occurred nearly a year after Trudeau accused India of involvement in a Canadian Khalistani separatist's death. According to CBC News, Trudeau described their interaction as a "brief exchange."

The ongoing diplomatic tension highlights underlying issues between both nations, primarily concerning Canada's stance on pro-Khalistan elements within its borders. As both countries navigate this challenging period, future diplomatic engagements will be crucial in determining their relationship trajectory.