The escalating tensions between India and Canada reached a new peak with the Indian High Commissioner, Sanjay Kumar Verma, making serious accusations against the Canadian government. Verma, who was recalled from his post amid the deteriorating relationship, claims that Khalistani extremists, who are actively seeking to establish a separate Sikh state in India, are being encouraged by Canadian authorities. He goes further, alleging that these extremists have deep ties to the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), essentially functioning as its assets.
Verma, while refraining from providing concrete evidence, voiced his concerns about the influence these extremist groups wield over Indian students. He paints a picture of vulnerable students being lured by financial incentives and promises of food, making them susceptible to anti-India propaganda and activities. These students are then pressured to participate in protests and chant anti-India slogans, often being photographed for evidence of their involvement. The ultimate goal, according to Verma, is to encourage these students to seek asylum in Canada, creating a narrative of persecution in India and justifying their stay.
The ambassador’s claims come on the heels of Canada labeling him and five other Indian diplomats as “persons of interest” in the investigation into the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani terrorist designated by India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA). Verma vehemently denies any involvement in the killing and describes the declaration as a shock, recounting how he was informed while at the Toronto airport.
The escalating conflict between India and Canada began last year when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made allegations in the Canadian Parliament, claiming to have “credible allegations” that India was involved in Nijjar’s death. This allegation, while unsubstantiated, has significantly strained relations between the two countries, leading to the current diplomatic standoff.
Verma’s accusations, coupled with the recent labeling of Indian diplomats as “persons of interest,” highlight the deeply rooted mistrust and animosity that currently characterize the relationship between India and Canada. The situation is further complicated by the role of Khalistani extremists, who appear to have found a safe haven and support within Canada, raising serious concerns about their influence and potential for destabilizing the region.