US Urges India to Cooperate in Investigation of Khalistani Separatist's Killing; Tensions Escalate with Canada

In a recent development, US National Security Council Spokesperson John Kirby has commented on the serious allegations made by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau against India in the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Kirby has urged India to cooperate in the investigation and has emphasized the need for a transparent handling of the matter. He stated that the US is in touch with both India and Canada and wants the investigation to pursue unhindered in order to find the truth. The tensions between India and Canada escalated after Trudeau accused the Indian government of being behind the fatal shooting of Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Nijjar, a designated terrorist in India, was gunned down outside a Gurdwara in Canada's Surrey, British Columbia. Canadian officials had sought public condemnation of the murder from their allies, including the United States, but were met with reluctance. It is important to note that Nijjar had been designated a terrorist by Indian security agencies in 2020 and was accused of supporting attacks in Punjab. India sought his extradition in 2022 and linked him to the killing of a Hindu priest in Punjab the same year. Kirby has appealed for a fair and transparent probe into the matter and assured that the US will stay in touch with both countries. World leaders have been reacting to the India-Canada diplomatic standoff.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that Canberra does not discuss security briefings from the Five Eyes intelligence alliance, the group comprising Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the US, and the UK. Albanese had discussions with Trudeau but prefers to keep the details confidential. The UK government has also expressed its regular contact with Canadian partners over the allegations raised in the Canadian Parliament. Foreign Secretary James Cleverly emphasized the importance of respecting sovereignty and the rule of law. In light of the growing tension between the two countries, Indian nationals, students in Canada, and those planning to travel to the country have been advised to exercise caution.

Indian students in Canada have been specifically urged to exercise extreme caution and remain vigilant. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has recommended that Indian nationals and students in Canada register with the High Commission of India or the Consulates General in Ottawa, Toronto, and Vancouver. This registration would facilitate better communication in case of any emergency or untoward incident. The MEA has also highlighted the increase in anti-India activities and politically condoned hate crimes and criminal violence in Canada. Indian diplomats and sections of the Indian community opposing the anti-India agenda have been specifically targeted. The MEA assured that the High Commission and Consulates General in Canada will continue to work with Canadian authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of the Indian community.