The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has expressed concern over the arrests of three Indians allegedly linked to the killing of India-designated terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada. MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that while India was aware of the arrests, there had been no formal communication from Canada regarding the matter. Jaiswal emphasized that no specific or relevant evidence had been shared by Canadian authorities to date, leading to the perception that the issue was being pre-judged. He suggested that political interests may be at play in the handling of the case.
Furthermore, Jaiswal raised apprehensions about Canada providing political space to separatists, extremists, and individuals advocating violence. He alleged that Indian diplomats in Canada faced threats with impunity and were obstructed from performing their duties. The MEA spokesperson highlighted concerns about figures associated with organized crime with links to India being allowed entry and residency in Canada, alongside pending extradition requests from India. Diplomatic discussions are underway to address these issues at the diplomatic level.
The statements from the MEA come amidst ongoing tensions between India and Canada regarding the handling of cases involving individuals with links to extremism and organized crime. Last week, India rejected comments made by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, reiterating concerns about the political space afforded to separatism, extremism, and violence in Canada. The case involving the three Indian nationals charged with first-degree murder and conspiracy underscores the complex dynamics of bilateral relations and the challenges in addressing transnational issues related to terrorism and organized crime.
