New Delhi:India stated on Thursday that Canada has notified them about the arrest of three Indian men charged with the murder of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia last year. However, India emphasized that Canadian authorities have not shared any pertinent information or specific evidence regarding Delhi’s involvement in the matter. Randhir Jaiswal, spokesman for India’s External Affairs Ministry, informed reporters that discussions between the two countries were ongoing but accused Canada of providing shelter to individuals advocating violence against India.
Jaiswal highlighted Delhi’s complaints to Canadian authorities regarding the admission and residency of individuals associated with organized crime from India into Canada. He mentioned that numerous extradition requests from India are still pending. Jaiswal also expressed concerns about diplomats facing threats and obstruction in the performance of their duties, stating that discussions on these issues are underway at the diplomatic level.
The murder of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar last year triggered a diplomatic dispute after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau commented on “credible allegations” of Indian involvement, which India refuted.
The three Indian men arrested in Canada have not yet requested access to Indian diplomats. Identified as Kamalpreet Singh (22), Karan Brar (22), and Karanpreet Singh (28), they appeared in court via video link and opted for an English trial. Their next court appearance is scheduled for May 21 in British Columbia Provincial Court.
The trio was apprehended in Edmonton, Alberta, last week and charged with first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder. Superintendent Mandeep Mooker of the Canadian Mounted Police mentioned that the investigation into possible ties with the Indian government is ongoing.
Notably, the three suspects had been residing in Canada as non-permanent residents.