In a significant development, India’s High Commissioner to Canada, Sanjay Kumar Verma, announced that diplomatic discussions are currently underway between India and Canada. These talks aim to address and resolve mutual concerns that have strained relations following serious allegations linked to the murder of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
Speaking at the Montreal Council on Foreign Relations, Commissioner Verma expressed optimism about reaching a resolution that acknowledges the security concerns of both nations. He emphasized, “The primary issues at stake are the national security threats that seem to be emanating from Canadian soil, primarily by Canadian citizens. These concerns represent non-negotiable red lines for us.”
This statement comes in the backdrop of a diplomatic conflict ignited last year when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau revealed credible allegations suggesting involvement of Indian agents in the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Nijjar, a Canadian citizen and vocal supporter of the Khalistan movement, was tragically killed in Surrey, British Columbia, in June of last year.
India has robustly dismissed these allegations as “absurd” and subsequently took drastic measures including the expulsion of several Canadian diplomatic personnel. India has continuously expressed its concerns regarding Sikh separatist activities in Canada, categorizing Nijjar as a “terrorist.”
Recent developments saw the arrest of three Indian nationals in Edmonton, Alberta, over their alleged involvement in Nijjar’s murder, with ongoing investigations probing potential links to the Indian government.
Despite these tensions, Commissioner Verma highlighted the enduring strength of bilateral trade relations between the two countries, underscoring the positive dynamics still in play. He also raised concerns about the exploitation of Indian students by certain educational institutions in Canada, which he claimed have been offering substandard education and false promises of residency pathways.
The Canadian government has responded by tightening regulations on educational institutions to protect international students and reduce the number of temporary residents, aiming for a 20% reduction over the next three years.
These diplomatic efforts reflect a concerted attempt by both nations to navigate through a complex web of issues that affect both national security and bilateral relations. Further updates and developments on this matter are expected as discussions progress.