The 2022 assassination of Ripudaman Singh Malik, a controversial figure acquitted in the 1985 Air India bombing, has sparked a chain of events that intertwine historical events, political controversies, and religious factions within the Sikh community. The murder, linked to pro-Khalistan groups and a feud with Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, has also ignited diplomatic tensions between Canada and India, raising questions about the role of foreign actors in the saga.
Canada’s High Commissioner to India, Cameron MacKay, has denounced the promotion of violence displayed by Khalistani extremists in Canada. Following incidents of floats featuring former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s assassination and provocative posters, India has lodged protests with Canadian authorities. Ottawa has clarified that such actions are unacceptable within its borders. The display of hatred and violence has raised concerns among Indian nationals residing in Canada, who feel intimidated by the ongoing extremism.
In an effort to address tensions between India and Canada regarding the killing of Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, David Vigneault, director of the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), made two unannounced visits to India in February and March. Vigneault reportedly shared information from Ottawa’s investigation into the murder, which had previously strained diplomatic relations after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged Indian agents’ involvement. The murder investigation is ongoing by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. While Canada has provided information to India through multiple channels, India maintains that it has not received specific details on the case. Despite Vigneault’s visits and Canada’s commitment to ensuring accountability, India has expressed concerns about the presence of pro-Khalistani elements in Canada and the safety of its diplomats.
Amandeep Singh, a 22-year-old Indian national, appeared in court on Wednesday in connection with the murder of pro-Khalistan figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar on June 18, 2022. Singh, who was already in custody on charges related to firearm possession and drug offenses, is accused of being one of the two gunmen involved in the killing. He will next appear in court on May 21 along with three other suspects arrested earlier in May.
Canadian authorities have charged a fourth Indian national in connection with the 2023 murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a prominent Sikh leader in Vancouver. Amandeep Singh, 22, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder, adding to the ongoing investigation that has strained relations between Canada and India. Nijjar, who advocated for a separate Sikh state known as Khalistan, was shot dead in June 2023, sparking allegations of Indian intelligence involvement.
Canada’s Foreign Minister Melanie Joly has restated allegations that Indian agents were involved in the murder of pro-Khalistan figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar. This comes amidst India’s concerns about threats to its territorial integrity posed by Canadian citizens. India’s High Commissioner to Ottawa has expressed concern over pro-Khalistan elements operating from Canada and has described such threats as a “red line.” However, Canada has reiterated its commitment to protecting its citizens and investigating criminal activity, while respecting the right of Canadians to express their views peacefully.
Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly has reaffirmed her country’s accusations against India regarding the murder of India-designated terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Joly stated that their job is to protect Canadians and they stand by the allegations that a Canadian was killed on Canadian soil by Indian agents. India has strongly denied the claims and has called for diplomatic channels to be respected.
Canada’s Immigration Minister Marc Miller has dismissed External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s criticism of Ottawa’s immigration policies, stating that Canada conducts thorough criminal record checks on individuals entering the country on student visas. Miller said the Indian foreign minister is entitled to his opinion, but his comments are not accurate.
