Diplomatic Tensions Boil: Canada Accuses India of Involvement in Murder of Sikh Separatist Leader

 Diplomatic tensions between Canada and India have intensified following the murder of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Canada has alleged that Indian government agents were involved in the killing, leading to the expulsion of a senior Indian diplomat from Canada. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed his "deep concerns" about the incident, stating that it was an "unacceptable violation of our sovereignty."

However, India has vehemently denied these allegations, dismissing them as "absurd and motivated." Despite the strain in relations, other countries, including the UK, have indicated their commitment to continue trade talks with India. UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's spokesperson confirmed that the allegations would not impact trade negotiations and that work on a trade deal would continue as before.

Canada and Britain both have large Sikh populations, which adds complexity to their relations with India. The murder of Nijjar and the subsequent diplomatic expulsions have drawn attention to the cause of Sikh separatists, who seek an independent Sikh homeland in northern India. Both India and Canada have been urged to handle the situation through legal means and to take action against anti-Indian elements operating from their respective soils.