Trial of Four Indians in Hardeep Nijjar Murder Case Postponed Again Amid India-Canada Diplomatic Strain
Outgoing Canadian NSA Acknowledges India’s Cooperation in Nijjar Probe
The trial of four Indian nationals charged in the murder of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar has been delayed once more, extending a case that has become a focal point of diplomatic tensions between India and Canada. The latest hearing, held on February 11 at the British Columbia Supreme Court in New Westminster, saw the case adjourned, with the next conference scheduled for April.
The accused—Karan Brar, Amandeep Singh, Kamalpreet Singh, and Karanpreet Singh—are facing charges of first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder. The trial has faced repeated delays, with at least six adjournments so far, primarily due to the prosecution’s requests for more time to disclose evidence. The exact reasons for the latest postponement remain undisclosed.
The Nijjar case has been a major source of friction between India and Canada since September 2023, when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau claimed his government possessed credible evidence implicating Indian agents in Nijjar’s assassination. India has vehemently denied these allegations, countering that Canada has provided a safe haven for extremist elements tied to the Khalistan movement.
A Canadian commission report released on January 28, 2025, added another layer to the controversy. While the report stated there was “no definitive link” to a foreign state in Nijjar’s killing, the Canadian High Commission in India clarified that the commission was not specifically investigating the murder. Despite multiple arrests, Canadian authorities have yet to publicly present concrete evidence connecting the Indian government to the crime.
The accused first appeared in court in May 2024, and after numerous delays, the case was transferred from Surrey Provincial Court to the British Columbia Supreme Court via a direct indictment. During the recent hearing, three defense lawyers participated virtually, while one of the accused appeared in person.
The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) in British Columbia continues to lead the investigation, but the lack of progress and persistent diplomatic tensions have fueled speculation. With the trial now pushed to April, the case remains a contentious issue, further complicating the already strained relationship between India and Canada.
The prolonged legal proceedings and unresolved allegations have kept the Nijjar case in the spotlight, underscoring the deep-seated mistrust between the two nations. As diplomatic efforts to mend ties continue, the trial’s outcome could have significant implications for the future of India-Canada relations.