Trudeau Acknowledges Lack of Proof in Nijjar Assassination Allegations

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau admitted during a public inquiry that his government does not possess "hard evidentiary proof" to substantiate claims that Indian agents were involved in the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Trudeau's remarks came amidst growing diplomatic tension between India and Canada, fueled by accusations in 2023. He clarified that while intelligence informed the allegations, it did not amount to concrete evidence. India has categorically denied the charges, further straining bilateral relations.

Trudeau's testimony, delivered in Ottawa, underscored the fragile nature of the diplomatic standoff. He noted that his government’s assertions relied on information provided by intelligence services, not on indisputable evidence linking Indian operatives to the crime. Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar was killed outside a gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia, sparking controversy over possible political motivations behind his death.

Diplomatic relations between Canada and India have continued to erode since Trudeau’s initial allegations in 2023. In response to Canada’s assertions, India expelled six Canadian diplomats earlier this week and removed its high commissioner from Ottawa, categorically dismissing any involvement in Nijjar’s assassination. This move came after Ottawa insisted that credible intelligence had been shared with New Delhi linking Indian agencies to the crime.

Trudeau’s testimony also highlighted growing concerns within Canada about foreign interference, as some South Asian members of parliament had reportedly suggested that India might have been involved in Nijjar’s death. However, Trudeau refrained from naming specific individuals. He also pointed to the alleged role of the Lawrence Bishnoi crime syndicate, claiming that intelligence gathered by Canadian officials had been shared with Indian authorities and subsequently used by criminal organizations to target Canadian citizens.

Despite these claims, Indian authorities have consistently rejected any association with the Bishnoi gang or involvement in acts of violence against Canadians. Indian officials have repeatedly called the accusations absurd, emphasizing that no tangible evidence has been provided to substantiate the charges.

The assassination of Nijjar, who was wanted in India on charges related to terrorism, has become a focal point in the broader political dispute between the two nations. Although initial suspicions indicated gang-related motives for the killing, the narrative shifted after Trudeau’s government suggested an Indian connection. This has severely strained diplomatic ties between Ottawa and New Delhi, complicating trade negotiations and broader geopolitical cooperation.