Canada, India each expel diplomats as tensions rise over 2023 murder

Canada and India have both expelled diplomats as tensions rise over accusations that Indian officials orchestrated violence against Sikh separatists in Canada. The fallout follows an investigation into the 2023 murder of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar , which Canadian authorities allege was part of a broader campaign by Indian agents targeting dissidents.

The Canadian government expelled six Indian diplomats on Monday, Oct. 14, accusing them of involvement in a plot to track and threaten dissidents. Nijjar, a vocal advocate for the Khalistan movement that seeks an independent Sikh state in India’s Punjab region, was shot dead outside a British Columbia temple.

India had labeled Nijjar a terrorist, and now Canadian authorities believe Indian agents were behind his killing. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police uncovered what they describe as a “ criminal network ” of Indian agents operating in Canada.

In response, India expelled six Canadian diplomats, calling the allegations baseless and accusing Canada of harboring extremists.

This escalation follows months of strained relations, including the suspension of trade talks. Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has raised the issue with allies, including the U.S. and U.K., calling for international cooperation to address the killing.

With both countries refusing to back down, the diplomatic row could have significant economic and geopolitical consequences.

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