India Rejects Canadian Media Allegations on Nijjar Case as ‘Politically Motivated’
India on Monday firmly rejected “baseless” claims by the Canadian press alleging New Delhi’s involvement in the murder of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, describing them as “politically motivated” and unsupported by credible evidence.
The response came after Canadian reports suggested links between India and Nijjar’s assassination in June 2023 in British Columbia. These reports emerged during Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s first visit to India, seen as an effort to restore bilateral ties.
“India categorically rejects allegations of involvement in transnational violence or organised crime. These claims are baseless, politically motivated, and unsupported by credible evidence. Concerns of this nature must be addressed through credible law enforcement and judicial processes, not through public or politicised narratives,” said P Kumaran, Secretary (East), Ministry of External Affairs.
Regarding reports implicating officers of India’s R&AW, Kumaran emphasized that sensitive matters should follow established legal procedures. “The criminal investigation is proceeding according to Canada’s legal system and will move to the full jury trial stage. India remains committed to the judicial process and believes such matters should not be politicised publicly,” he said.
India-Canada Relations
Bilateral relations between India and Canada suffered in 2023 when then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged India’s involvement in Nijjar’s death. India denied the allegations, calling them “absurd and politically motivated,” and accused Ottawa of allowing extremist Khalistani elements to operate from Canadian soil.
The dispute led to the expulsion of diplomats and a freeze in ties. Relations began to improve after Carney’s April 2025 election victory. By August, envoys were reappointed, and Carney visited India to strengthen economic and diplomatic cooperation.
During a joint press briefing, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced plans to finalise a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) aimed at boosting trade, with a goal to reach $50 billion by 2030. “Unlocking the full potential of economic cooperation is our priority. We have decided to finalise CEPA soon,” PM Modi said.
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