During the ongoing Lok Sabha elections in India, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has criticized the Indian government. Trudeau questioned the circumstances surrounding the death of Khalistani separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Last year, Nijjar died under suspicious circumstances. Trudeau further elaborated that his administration will continue to protect the rights and freedoms of all people residing in Canada.
Trudeau addressed a committee regarding internal and external interference in Canada
He also highlighted the historically good relations between Canada and India’s earlier governments. He emphasized that safeguarding the rights of minorities is a priority for his government, even if it causes discomfort in their countries of origin.
The whole issue stems from the murder of Khalistani Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey City, Canada, on June 18, 2023. At that time, the Canadian PM raised international attention to the incident and criticized the Indian government. Trudeau’s insinuations of ‘possible’ involvement of an ‘Indian agent’ in Nijjar’s death soured the relations between India and Canada.
Trudeau’s comments come amidst the ongoing Lok Sabha elections in India, adding a diplomatic dimension to the political discourse.