India Denies Involvement in Sikh Leader's Killing, Demands Evidence from Canada

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In a recent interview with CBC News, Indian High Commissioner Dinesh K Patnaik refuted Canada's allegations linking New Delhi to the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Sikh separatist leader. Patnaik emphasized that the case is against four individuals, not the Indian government. The remarks came as British Columbia Premier David Eby visited India on a trade mission, amidst improving ties between New Delhi and Ottawa. The relationship between the two countries strained after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's September 2023 allegations of potential Indian agent involvement in Nijjar's killing outside a gurdwara in Surrey. Patnaik questioned the credibility of Canada's claims, stating that the government of India has consistently rejected the allegations as 'absurd' and 'motivated'. He pointed out the lack of evidence in the case and compared it to the unresolved investigation into the 1985 Air India bombing, which has seen no convictions despite 40 years of discussing terrorism in Canada. Patnaik urged Canada to provide concrete evidence, stating that action will be taken if such evidence is presented. He highlighted instances where prior information provided by India was not acted upon, but later proved to be true. The Indian diplomat also emphasized the importance of due process and the need for evidence to support accusations. The Indian government has maintained that it does not engage in actions like the alleged killing of Nijjar. Patnaik reassured that if there are individuals within the government involved in such activities, and evidence is provided, they will be held accountable. The diplomatic exchange comes as the two countries continue to navigate their strained relationship. Patnaik's comments underscore the need for evidence-based accusations and the importance of maintaining a constructive dialogue between the two nations.