Canada has recently levelled serious allegations against the Indian government, claiming that New Delhi is directly involved in “serious criminal activity” within its borders. This accusation has heightened tensions between the two nations, particularly regarding the alleged targeting of pro-Khalistan elements by Indian agents collaborating with the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. Notably, these claims surfaced as Bishnoi’s name emerged in connection with high-profile murders in India, including that of NCP leader Baba Siddique in Mumbai.
During a press conference late Monday, officials from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) announced that their investigation into the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar—a Khalistani activist shot dead in Canada last year—had revealed connections between Indian government agents and “homicides and violent acts” in Canada. The RCMP’s assertions come at a time when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has openly called out India for its alleged involvement in Nijjar’s murder, further complicating diplomatic relations.
The RCMP stated that their evidence suggests that various individuals and businesses in Canada, and potentially abroad, have been coerced into gathering intelligence for the Indian government. This information is allegedly used to target individuals within the South Asian community, particularly those identified as pro-Khalistani. Assistant Commissioner Brigitte Gauvin noted that although the South Asian community is being targeted, the focus is primarily on pro-Khalistani individuals.
Gauvin emphasised that organised crime groups, particularly the Bishnoi gang, are being utilised by Indian agents to carry out these operations. The gang, which has garnered attention in India for its involvement in various criminal activities, is believed to maintain a presence in Canada through associates. The RCMP’s statements indicate that these collaborations might be part of a broader strategy by the Indian government to monitor and suppress pro-Khalistani sentiments abroad.
The implications of this situation are significant, especially as Canada has long been accused by India of harbouring Khalistani extremists. Notably, the Air India Flight 182 bombing, which resulted in the deaths of 329 people, is often cited as a tragic example of the consequences of such extremism. Indian officials have repeatedly voiced concerns that Canada has become a sanctuary for individuals linked to organised crime, exacerbating tensions over immigration policies that permit entry to individuals with criminal backgrounds.
In light of these escalating accusations, the Canadian government’s stance has drawn sharp criticism from Indian officials. Following the RCMP’s press conference, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs issued a stern rebuke, stating that Canada has failed to provide any tangible evidence to support its claims against India. Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar previously expressed concern that Canada’s immigration policies have allowed criminals from Punjab to enter the country without proper scrutiny, further complicating the issue.
The recent allegations come at a particularly sensitive time, as India has raised alarms about the activities of Khalistani supporters in Canada, suggesting they pose a threat not only to India but also to Canada’s internal security. Jaishankar’s comments regarding the welcoming of criminals into Canada have been echoed by Indian diplomats, who argue that the Canadian government has not done enough to address the growing influence of separatist movements within its borders.
As the diplomatic row escalates, Canada’s decision to name Indian diplomats as “persons of interest” in the Nijjar murder investigation has led to significant retaliatory measures from New Delhi. The Indian government has recalled its top envoy from Canada and expelled six Canadian diplomats in response to the ongoing allegations.
Prime Minister Trudeau, while addressing the media, claimed that he had made multiple attempts to collaborate with India regarding the Nijjar case, only to be met with resistance from New Delhi. This narrative has been met with scepticism from Indian officials, who accuse Trudeau of using the situation for domestic political gain amidst growing concerns over separatist elements in Canada.
As the diplomatic standoff continues, both nations remain entrenched in their positions. The accusations and counter-accusations have not only strained bilateral relations but also raised broader questions about the impact of organised crime and extremism on global security. With neither side appearing willing to back down, the path forward may require significant diplomatic intervention to resolve these mounting tensions.