Canadian authorities have arrested three Indian nationals suspected of being part of a hit squad responsible for the killing of prominent Khalistan activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar last year.
The arrests, which come at a time when Canada and India are witnessing heightened tensions, have consequently reignited accusations of Indian government involvement.
Nijjar, a 45-year-old Canadian citizen, was shot dead outside his gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia, in June 2023. The incident sparked a diplomatic rift after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau suggested possible Indian involvement. India vehemently denied the claims, calling them "absurd" and "politically motivated."
Court documents now reveal charges against Karanpreet Singh, Kamalpreet Singh, and Karan Brar, all facing first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder in connection with Nijjar's death.
The indictments allege the conspiracy unfolded between May 2023 and the killing, with sources suggesting the men played varying roles as shooters, drivers, and lookouts.
Canadian media reports, citing unnamed sources, claim the investigation is exploring potential links between the hit squad and three other murders in Canada, including the tragic shooting of an 11-year-old boy.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) is expected to provide further details on the arrests and investigation soon.
These developments come against a backdrop of strained relations between the two nations. India reacted strongly to Trudeau's remarks at a Khalsa Day event in Toronto, where he acknowledged the "problem" created by Nijjar's killing and could not ignore it. Indian officials saw this as a veiled reference to his earlier allegations, further criticising Canada for providing space to "separatism, extremism, and violence."
Tensions escalated further when pro-Khalistan slogans were raised at the event in Trudeau's presence. India summoned the Canadian deputy high commissioner, lodging a strong protest and linking the incident to a deteriorating security environment in Canada.
Notably, Nijjar himself was a Khalistan separatist wanted in India on terror charges.
In retaliation for Trudeau's comments, India downgraded its diplomatic presence in Canada, prompting Ottawa to withdraw 41 diplomats and their families.
India has consistently highlighted its core issue with Canada – the perceived tolerance for "separatists, terrorists and anti-India elements."
Visa services were also temporarily suspended by India following the initial accusations.
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