United Nations, Sep 22: Canada’s Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, has restated his allegations that India was involved in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. However, he emphasized that Ottawa’s intention is not to provoke India while declining to share evidence to support his claims.
Speaking at a news conference in New York on Thursday, Trudeau stated, “We are not looking to provoke or cause problems (with India).”
He underscored the growing importance of India as a nation and the need for continued collaboration, both regionally and globally. He added, “But we are unequivocal around the importance of the rule of law and unequivocal about the importance of protecting Canadians and standing up for our values.”
Canada’s position, according to Trudeau, is to request India’s cooperation in establishing processes to uncover the truth behind the matter and to ensure that justice and accountability prevail.
India has vehemently denied Trudeau’s allegations, which were first made in the Canadian parliament on Monday. Three months after the shooting of Hardeep Singh Nijjar on June 18 outside a Sikh center in Surrey, British Columbia, no arrests have been made in the case.
Trudeau ruled out taking retaliatory action in response to India’s suspension of visas for Canadians. He called for “calm” and reassured that Canada remains a safe country.
When questioned by reporters about the evidence behind his allegations, Trudeau refrained from providing specific details, emphasizing the importance of allowing justice processes to unfold with integrity. He stated, “There are credible allegations that we need to take extremely seriously as Canadians and indeed as a world.”
Trudeau also mentioned that he had a “direct and frank conversation” with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during which he expressed his concerns.
Regarding India’s suspension of visa services for Canadians, Trudeau indicated that there would be no immediate reciprocal action, stating, “We are going to continue to do the work necessary to keep Canadians safe and to uphold our values and the international rules-based order. That’s our focus right now.”
Trudeau assured all Canadians, including those of Indian origin who are not Sikhs, of their safety and protection. He called for calm and urged Canadians to uphold the values of openness, respect, and trust in institutions and law enforcement.
When asked about the handling of Nijjar’s reported threats to his life by Canadian law enforcement, Trudeau responded, “I think there will be” a review of the matter.
Trudeau did not directly address questions about the reactions of Canada’s allies or whether he had asked other world leaders to condemn India. However, he emphasized that Canada is committed to protecting its citizens and upholding the international rules-based order alongside its allies.
In summary, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has reiterated his allegations against India in the Hardeep Singh Nijjar case but emphasized Canada’s desire to maintain diplomatic relations and collaborate with India, while also underlining the importance of the rule of law and justice.
